What Is an Endometrial Biopsy?

If you suffer from chronic pelvic pain, you may have a serious underlying condition like endometriosis. Our doctor may recommend an endometrial biopsy to aid in diagnosis. Dr. Anya Rose and Dr. Megan Gau at Rose Women’s Health in Arcadia, CA, provide comprehensive OBGYN services, including diagnostic testing to help you. 

What You Need To Know About an Endometrial Biopsy

Your endometrium is a layer of tissue which lines the inside of your uterus. An endometrial biopsy involves taking a small sample of endometrial tissue and examining the cells under a microscope. An endometrial biopsy is useful to: 

• Determine the cause of postmenopausal bleeding 
• Determine the cause of abnormal uterine bleedling 
• Screen for cancer of the endometrium 
• Evaluate fertility issues 
• Evaluate how your body is responding to hormone therapy 

An endometrial biopsy is also useful to diagnose endometriosis, a condition causing endometrial tissue to grow outside of your uterus. This causes the endometrial tissue to thicken and break down. During your period, the tissue becomes trapped, causing cramping and heavy bleeding. Our OBGYN doctor may recommend an endometrial biopsy if you are experiencing: 

• Extended pelvic pain and cramping 
• Lower back and abdominal pain 
• Pain during intercourse 
• Painful urination or bowel movements 
• Excessive bleeding during or between periods 
• Fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, or constipation 

To prepare for your endometrial biopsy you may want to take an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen shortly before your procedure. Our OBGYN doctor may also recommend a mild sedative to make you more comfortable. If you are sedated, you need to bring someone with you to drive you home afterward. 

During an endometrial biopsy, our OBGYN doctor will insert a thin tube through the cervix and into the uterus. The tube scrapes the lining of the uterus to obtain a tissue sample. The sample is sent to a lab for analysis, and you will have your results back within 7 to 10 days. 

Want To Know More? 

To learn more about an endometrial biopsy and how it can help you, call Dr. Anya Rose and Dr. Megan Gau at Rose Women’s Health in Arcadia, CA. You can reach them in the office by calling (626) 461-7071, so call today.