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An endometrial biopsy is a diagnostic procedure in which a small sample of tissue is taken from the lining of the uterus, known as the endometrium, for examination. The procedure is usually done to help diagnose conditions such as abnormal uterine bleeding, infertility and endometrial cancer.
During the procedure the doctor will insert a thin, flexible tube called a catheter through the cervix and into the uterus. A small device attached to the catheter will be used to gently scrape a small amount of tissue from the endometrium. This tissue sample will be sent to a laboratory for analysis.
An endometrial biopsy is done in-office and takes only a few minutes. Some women may experience mild cramping or discomfort during the procedure and there may be some light bleeding afterward. In rare cases, there may be more significant bleeding or infection.
It’s important to follow the doctor’s instructions after the biopsy, which may include avoiding sex and using pads instead of tampons for a few days. Results of the biopsy will typically be available within a few days, and the doctor will discuss them with the patient and determine any necessary next steps.
