Manhattan Women's Health and Wellness
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Endometrial Biopsy

Endometrial Biopsy ProcedureAn endometrial biopsy refers to the procedure your OBGYN doctor in NYC may perform that involves removing a tiny piece of tissue from your endometrium, more commonly called the uterine lining. The test is done so that the tissue can be examined under a microscope or more extensively in a lab.

Even a small sample of tissue can help to confirm a diagnosis that may not be apparent on previous tests. The sample may show changes in the cells that indicate a certain condition or reflect hormone changes. After an endometrial biopsy, your gynecologist in Midtown typically will have a clearer idea of your condition and which treatment you require — or that additional tests need to be performed.

Your gynecology center in Manhattan offers a comprehensive Obstetrics & Gynecology care for women of all ages. At our obgyn clinic of we provide a full range of gynecologic services, from annual check-ups and routine pap smears to performing endometrial biopsies, and gyn procedures. Our state of the art gynecology NYC clinic equipped with a latest obgyn equipment.

Why You Might Need the Test

The test can reveal a number of conditions from the tissue sample removed during an endometrial biopsy. Conditions that may require that you undergo a biopsy to find a cause of your symptoms include:

  • Bleeding that occurs after you’ve stopped menstruating due to menopause
  • Discovery of a thickened uterine wall following an ultrasound
  • Excessive bleeding while taking fertility drugs
  • Menstrual periods that include an abnormally strong blood flow, such as bleeding that lasts too long, is heavier than normal or is continuously irregular
  • Check for endometrial cancer

The test may be indicated if your OBGYN believes you may have an infection that can’t otherwise be confirmed. Infections very often lead to excessive bleeding, a condition called endometriosis. Testing for endometrial cancer is a vital step in the treatment of the disease because this type of cancer is the most common form that occurs in the female reproductive system. At the same time, gyn specialist in Midtown may have other reasons for conducting an endometrial biopsy.

What You Can Expect

Endometrial cancer is the most common female cancer in the US

Endometrial biopsy steps usually are performed on an outpatient basis in the gynecologist’s office. It can, however, be done while you’re hospitalized for symptoms that have become more serious. The place where the test takes place depends on your overall health and condition.

The usual process that you’ll follow involves the following steps:

  • Empty your bladder before the procedure begins.
  • Remove your clothes from the waist down.
  • Lie on an examination table with your feet in foot holders, like you do when you’re getting your annual pelvic exam.
  • The gynecologist will place a speculum in the vagina so they can see your cervix.
  • Your OBGYN cleans the internal area with antiseptic.
  • Your cervix may need to be grasped by a small tool. This sometimes feels like a small pinch or mosquito bite.
  • A catheter, or thin tube, is inserted, through which a smaller tube is then passed. The inner tube uses suction to gather a tissue gently. There may be some mild cramping for a few seconds at this point.
  • The instruments are removed and the sample preserved in a solution prepared to be sent to the laboratory.

Bleeding after menopause ALWAYS needs to be investigated by your gynecologist

The amount of tissue taken depends on your symptoms and what your local doctor or gynecologists in Midtown, suspects may be going on. The test is relatively painless, although you may feel some discomfort when your cervix is spread. The instruments may be cold to the touch, which can cause cramping while they’re inserted and rotated in your uterus.

Following the Test

If you were put under any kind of relaxing sedation for the test, you’ll need to have someone drive you home from the office. After a short rest, you may need to wear a sanitary pad to trap any residual small amount of bleeding that is common after uterine biopsies.

It’s also common that you may continue to feel some discomfort and cramping for a few days; Your gynecologist in Midtown NYC may give you a mild pain reliever if you need it. Follow directions closely because some over-the-counter pain relievers, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, can cause additional bleeding.

To prevent adverse consequences from the procedure:

  • Refrain from sex after endometrial biopsy for two to three days.
  • Avoid douching or using tampons for two to three days or for the time recommended by your physician.
  • Resume your normal diet and eating patterns unless otherwise directed.
  • Limit your activity for a couple days, such as lifting heavy objects.
  • Return for a follow-up visit as directed.

Potential Side Effects

While the endometrial biopsy is generally safe with little or no long-term side effects, there always are potential issues that can arise with any procedure. Possible risks associated with a uterine biopsy can include:

  • Prolonged bleeding
  • Infection
  • Continued cramping
  • Tearing or perforating your uterine wall, a very rare occurrence

Call your gynecologist in Midtown NYC if other, less common, side effects occur, such as:

  • A foul-smelling discharge
  • Continued bleeding after uterine biopsy past two days
  • Severe abdominal cramping or pain
  • Fever or chills

What It Means

uterine cancer screening
In addition to taking care of the mild side effects that you can expect, waiting for the test results can be the most frustrating part of having an endometrial biopsy. Abnormal results may indicate the line of treatment or the next round of tests. Some results could be:

  • Infection
  • Uterine fibroids
  • Polyps in your uterus
  • Anovulatory bleeding caused by abnormal hormone levels
  • Other hormone imbalances
  • Hyperplasia or pre-cancer
  • Endometrial cancer

 

Important Reminder: This information is only intended to provide guidance, not definitive medical advice. Please consult ob/gyn doctor about your specific condition. Only a trained, experienced gynecologist can determine an accurate diagnosis and proper treatment.

Have questions about Endometrial Biopsy procedure? Schedule an appointment with a nationally recognized NYC GYN doctor, Dr. Fernando Mariz of Manhattan Women’s Health and Wellness, today.

Updated on Jun 26, 2020 by Dr. Fernando Mariz (Gynecologist), Manhattan Women’s Health and Wellness
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New York City Locations: Manhattan Women's Health & Wellness (Upper East Side) 983 Park Ave, Ste 1D17
New York, NY 10028
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New York, NY 10010
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New York, NY 10011
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DISCLAIMER: PLEASE READ CAREFULLY The information on this website is to provide general information. The information on this website does NOT reflect definitive medical advice, and self-diagnoses should not be made based on information obtained online. It is important to consult a physician for a consultation and examination regarding any symptoms or signs you may be having. Your physician should make an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan to exclude a serious condition.