Outpatient sample
Endometrial biopsy
A small sample of the womb lining, taken in clinic, to investigate heavy or abnormal bleeding. Quick to perform and usually well tolerated.
- In clinic
- 10 minutes
- No anaesthesia (or local in selected cases)
Overview
About this procedure.
An endometrial biopsy is the quickest, gentlest way to get a tissue sample from the lining of the womb. Most patients describe it as similar to a smear test, with a brief cramping sensation lasting under a minute.
Preparing for your appointment: take paracetamol or ibuprofen an hour before. Let us know if you have any concerns about pain; local anaesthetic to the cervix can be added if helpful.
Setting
In clinic
Duration
10 minutes
Anaesthetic
No anaesthesia (or local in selected cases)
Indications
What it's for.
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Heavy or irregular periods
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Bleeding between periods
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Postmenopausal bleeding
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Thickening of the womb lining seen on ultrasound
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Surveillance of endometrial hyperplasia under treatment
On the day
How it's done.
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A speculum is used, similar to a smear test
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A thin, soft plastic device (Pipelle) is passed through the cervix into the womb
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Gentle suction collects a small sample of the lining
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The whole procedure takes around 30 seconds to a minute
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Sample is sent to the laboratory for analysis
Recovery
After your procedure.
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Period-like cramping for a few hours is common
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Light spotting for one to two days
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Paracetamol or ibuprofen helps
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Return to normal activity immediately
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Results usually available within 7–10 days
Benefits
Why this approach.
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Quick and well tolerated by most patients
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Avoids general anaesthetic and time off work
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Definitive tissue diagnosis
Risks
What to be aware of.
- Cramping during and shortly after the procedure
- Light bleeding
- Infection (uncommon)
- Perforation of the womb (very rare)
Related conditions
Often seen alongside.