Post-cone biopsy care and recovery

A cone biopsy, also called cervical conisation, removes a cone-shaped piece of cervical tissue for laboratory assessment and, in some cases, treatment of abnormal cells. Cramping, watery or blood-stained discharge and light bleeding can occur while the cervix heals. Bleeding may change as a healing scab separates, so follow the specific instructions from your hospital.

The tissue result helps explain whether cervical dysplasia, invasive cervical cancer or another change is present, and whether the edges of the removed tissue need further attention. The result does not replace follow-up: your team will set out surveillance or treatment based on the findings.

Use pads while discharge or bleeding continues. Avoid tampons, douching, vaginal medicines and penetrative sex until your clinician says the cervix has healed. Follow advice about swimming, bathing, exercise and lifting, and take pain relief only as directed. Keep the appointment where your result and next steps will be explained.

Contact the clinic if you are unsure whether a symptom is expected or whether an activity is safe. A previous [Colposcopy](/treatments/diagnostics-and-imaging/colposcopy/) may have led to the biopsy, and [Loop Excision of the Cervix](/treatments/gynaecological-surgery/loop-excision-of-the-cervix/) is a different procedure your clinician may discuss in some situations.

Seek urgent advice for bleeding that soaks pads quickly or is increasing, severe pain not helped by the recommended medicine, fever, chills, feeling faint, or discharge with a strong unpleasant smell. These signs can indicate significant bleeding or infection and should not be managed by waiting for the routine review.

Ask when you can resume sex, tampons, swimming, exercise and lifting; when the tissue result will be available; whether the margins were clear; and what follow-up test is planned. Ask which symptoms should take you to urgent care and who to contact outside clinic hours.