What to expect from a cone biopsy for cervical dysplasia

Cervical dysplasia describes abnormal cells on the cervix. A cone biopsy removes the affected area and gives the laboratory a larger specimen to assess the cell changes and whether the edges of the removed tissue are clear. The procedure may be performed with local or general anaesthesia, depending on the planned approach and your circumstances.

You may have cramping and light bleeding or watery, brown discharge afterward. The laboratory result helps determine whether further monitoring or treatment is needed. A cone biopsy treats abnormal cervical tissue; it is not the same as removing the womb.

Follow the discharge instructions about rest, pain relief, bathing, exercise, and returning to work. Use sanitary pads while discharge continues, and avoid tampons, vaginal sex, and swimming until the cervix has healed or your clinician says they are safe. Keep the follow-up appointment so the result and future screening plan can be explained.

Tell the team before the procedure if you might be pregnant, take blood thinners, have a bleeding disorder, or hope to become pregnant. Ask how the procedure could affect future pregnancy care.

Contact your clinic urgently for bleeding that is heavy or increasing, large clots, fever, worsening pelvic pain, foul-smelling discharge, dizziness, or fainting. Emergency help is appropriate if bleeding makes you feel weak or unwell. These signs may indicate bleeding or infection after the procedure.

Ask why a cone biopsy is recommended, which anaesthetic will be used, how long restrictions may last, and when the laboratory result is expected. Discuss fertility plans, warning signs, and the exact timing of follow-up screening.