An endometrial biopsy is an office procedure performed with the goal to obtain a tissue sample, or biopsy, from the inside of the uterine lining. Your gynecologist may need to perform this procedure to be sure you do not have cancer of the uterus or pre-cancerous cells called Endometrial Hyperplasia.

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Indications for Endometrial Biopsy

Why would you need an endometrial biopsy? If you are experiencing one of the following conditions:

• Irregular periods
• Heavy periods causing anemia
• A change in your period
• Spotting between periods
• Bleeding after menopause (12 months without having a period)

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For individuals having abnormal bleeding, you may be required to undergo and endometrial biopsy. The procedure is performed in the office. The patient will be placed in the same position as when having a pap smear. A speculum is placed and the cervix is cleaned with betadine (a soap that kills bacteria in order to prevent infection). An endometrial biopsy pipelle is then advanced into the uterine cavity by passing it first through the cervical opening. Tissue is removed and sent to pathology for evaluation. We typically ask that you take 600 mg of motrin 30 minutes prior to your scheduled procedure to prevent uterine pain and cramping as a result of the biopsy. No anesthesia is required and you will go home the same day. Most patients experience mild to moderate cramping during the procedure. The entire procedure usually takes less than 2-5 minutes.