Uterine biopsy.

• To diagnose the cause of vaginal bleeding, especially in women over 35 who have a family history of endometrial cancer.
• To help determine the cause of the infertility.
• To check for any cancerous or precancerous changes in women who are taking estrogen replacement therapy without progesterone.

A sample of endometrial tissue is removed for examination by a pathologist.

• You undress from the waist down and cover your lap with a sheet.
• If a local anesthetic is not being used, you may be given a mild painkiller such as ibuprofen 30 minutes before the procedure.
• You lie on your back on an examination table with your feet in the stirrups as for a pelvic exam.
• A local anesthetic will then be injected into the cervix.

A narrow, flexible tube (catheter) is inserted into the uterus. The other end of the tube is attached to a vacuum. Suction is then used to remove a sample of endometrial tissue.

• You are free to leave and return to normal activities.
• You may experience some bleeding for a day or so, for which you should wear a sanitary napkin (avoid tampons).
• You may experience some cramping, for which you can take an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen.
• If you experience heavy bleeding, notify your doctor immediately.

Inadequate sample.

The sample will be analyzed by a pathologist for any cancerous or precancerous changes and possibly tested for the presence of hormones.

It's quick, accurate, and inexpensive.

• It's invasive.
• As with any biopsy, there is some risk of serious complications.

• If the test was done to monitor a woman taking estrogen replacement therapy without progesterone, it may be rescheduled periodically, even if results are normal.
• If tissue changes are noted, a D & C or other surgical procedure may be scheduled.