Does endometrial biopsy treat womb cancer?

During an endometrial biopsy, a clinician removes a small tissue sample from the lining of the womb. A laboratory examines the cells for abnormal changes, including changes that may indicate cancer. The sample can help explain unusual bleeding or a thickened lining, but removing the sample is not the same as removing a tumour or treating cancer.

If the result suggests womb cancer, further assessment may be needed to understand the cancer's type, grade and extent. Treatment can involve surgery, medicines, radiotherapy or a combination, depending on the findings and your overall health.

Follow the preparation and aftercare instructions given by the clinic. Ask when the result is expected and how it will be communicated. Keep a record of bleeding, pelvic symptoms, fever or unusual discharge, and tell the clinic about medicines that affect bleeding or a possible pregnancy.

If the biopsy does not provide enough tissue or the result is unclear, the clinician may recommend another test. A clear result should be interpreted alongside your symptoms, examination and any imaging.

Contact the clinic promptly for heavy bleeding, worsening pelvic pain, fever, chills, dizziness or foul-smelling discharge after the procedure. Seek emergency help if bleeding causes faintness, severe weakness or difficulty staying awake.

Ask what the biopsy is intended to answer, whether you need any preparation, when results should arrive, and what the next step would be for an abnormal or insufficient sample. Ask which treatment options may be considered if cancer is confirmed.