Endometrial Biopsy

Procedure Description

A small plastic catheter is placed through the cervix into the uterine cavity. A sample of tissue from the uterine lining (endometrium) is removed. The tissue is sent to a pathologist who will look at it under the microscope and determine if there are any abnormalities. An endometrial biopsy may be performed for the evaluation of abnormal uterine bleeding. It may also be performed to evaluate uterine receptivity in egg donor recipients or gestational surrogates.

What to Expect

The procedure is performed in our office; no anesthesia is required. Mild uterine cramping after the procedure is to be expected.

Pre-Procedure

You should take 400-600mg of ibuprofen 1 hour prior to the procedure. You do not need to have an empty stomach. Endometrial biopsies are usually performed after ovulation, so you should either abstain from intercourse or use barrier contraception in the cycle in which the biopsy is to be performed. A pregnancy test will be performed prior to the biopsy, but a negative test does not rule out an early pregnancy.

Post-Procedure

You should be able to drive yourself home after the procedure. You may return to work/home without restrictions after the biopsy. Light vaginal spotting may occur the evening of the biopsy, but your full period should start at the usual time. You should call our clinic and let us know when your period starts.