Endometrial Biopsy

Taking a small sample of endometrial tissue helps your doctor diagnose certain medical conditions. A biopsy can also check for uterine infections such as endometritis.

Why is an endometrial biopsy performed?

An endometrial biopsy may be performed to help diagnose abnormalities of the uterus. It can also rule out other diseases.

Your doctor may want to perform an endometrial biopsy to:

• find the cause of postmenopausal bleeding or abnormal uterine bleeding

• screen for endometrial cancer

• evaluate fertility

• test your response to hormone therapy

You can’t have an endometrial biopsy during pregnancy, and you shouldn’t have one if you have any of the following conditions:

• a blood clotting disorder

• acute pelvic inflammatory disease

• an acute cervical or vaginal infection

• cervical cancer

• cervical stenosis, or severe narrowing of the cervix

How do I prepare for an endometrial biopsy?

Endometrial biopsy during pregnancy can lead to miscarriage. Tell your doctor if you’re pregnant or if there’s a chance you may be pregnant. Your doctor might want you to take a pregnancy test before the biopsy to ensure that you aren’t pregnant.

Your doctor may also want you to keep a record of your menstrual cycles before the biopsy. This is usually requested if the test needs to be done at a particular time during your cycle.

Tell your doctor about any prescription or over-the-counter medications you are taking. You might have to stop taking blood thinners before an endometrial biopsy. These medications can interfere with the blood’s ability to clot properly. Your doctor will probably want to know whether you have any bleeding disorders or if you’re allergic to latex or iodine.

An endometrial biopsy can be uncomfortable. Your doctor may recommend that you take ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or another pain reliever 30 to 60 minutes before the procedure.

Your doctor may also give you a light sedative before the biopsy. The sedative may make you drowsy, so you shouldn’t drive until the effects have fully worn off. You may want to ask a friend or family member to drive you home after the procedure.