What to expect from an endometrial biopsy for womb cancer

You may change into a gown and lie on an examination bed. A speculum gently holds the vagina open while the clinician cleans the cervix. A narrow instrument passes through the cervix to collect lining tissue. Cramping, pressure, or a brief sharp sensation is possible. The sample goes to a laboratory, where its cells are assessed; the result can help guide further imaging, hysteroscopy, or treatment.

Tell the clinician if you might be pregnant, have an infection, use blood-thinning medicine, or have previously found pelvic examinations difficult. The test does not always collect enough tissue, so another sample may occasionally be suggested.

Follow the clinic’s instructions about medicines and eating. You may be advised to take a suitable pain reliever beforehand; check first if you have kidney, stomach, bleeding, or allergy concerns. Bring a pad for light bleeding and plan a quiet period afterward. Avoid inserting anything into the vagina for the period advised by your clinician. Keep the follow-up appointment even if bleeding settles, because the laboratory report determines the next discussion.

Get advice if bleeding becomes heavy, pelvic pain is severe or worsening, or you develop fever, chills, foul-smelling discharge, dizziness, or weakness. Seek urgent help for fainting, severe pain, or bleeding that makes you feel unwell. These symptoms may need assessment for infection or bleeding after the procedure.

Ask what the biopsy is investigating, how discomfort will be managed, when to expect the report, what an insufficient sample means, and which tests or treatment could follow different findings.