The endometrial biopsy involves sampling tissue from the lining of the uterus (endometrium) with a thin, straw-like device.
This procedure is done for a variety of reasons, including identifying pre-cancerous or cancerous cells in the endometrium, detecting evidence of infection or inflammation (chronic endometritis), or evaluating causes of miscarriage or implantation failure.
From start to finish, the test takes about five minutes. The physician begins by inserting a speculum into the vagina. The cervical area is cleansed with cotton swabs and antiseptic solution. An instrument called a tenaculum may be used to stabilize the cervix. This may cause a brief, slight cramping sensation. A narrow plastic instrument is passed into the uterus to collect a small sample of tissue from the side wall of the uterus. During the time the tissue is collected, minimal to severe cramping may be experienced. This will subside spontaneously after a few minutes. Those without medication allergies may take ibuprofen or acetaminophen 30-60 minutes before the procedure to help minimize discomfort during the procedure.
