Cone biopsy side effects: what to expect

Mild period-like cramps are common after the procedure. Bleeding may be light at first and discharge can become brown as old blood leaves the vagina. A small increase in bleeding can occur when the healing area separates from the cervix. Tiredness may follow anaesthesia, and the timing of recovery varies between people.

The procedure removes a cone-shaped piece of cervical tissue for diagnosis or treatment. Healing tissue can bleed more easily than usual, so symptoms should gradually settle rather than become steadily heavier. Your clinician may give advice that differs according to the method used and your medical history.

Use sanitary pads so you can observe the amount and colour of bleeding. Take prescribed or recommended pain relief as directed. Keep the follow-up appointment so the tissue result and cervical healing can be reviewed.

Until your care team says healing is adequate, avoid tampons, vaginal rinses and penetrative sex. Ask when exercise, swimming and lifting can resume, especially if your work is physically demanding. Do not drive while affected by sedating medicine.

Contact the clinic promptly for bleeding that is heavier than your normal period, clots that keep forming, worsening pelvic pain, fever, chills, foul-smelling discharge, dizziness or feeling faint. Seek urgent care for severe bleeding, collapse or difficulty breathing. If pregnancy is possible, mention it when seeking advice.

Ask which symptoms are expected after your technique, when your pathology result will be available, and which pain medicines are suitable for you. You can also ask when to return to sex, exercise and work, and how future cervical screening will be arranged.