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Cervical biopsy
cervical biopsy · colposcopy biopsy · punch biopsy of the cervix · cervix tissue sample
The doctor takes a tiny piece of tissue from the cervix. It is studied under a microscope.
When a smear or colposcopy shows changes and the doctor needs to know what they are.
⏱ Duration: the procedure usually takes 5 to 15 minutes; results usually come in 1 to 2 weeks
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Cycle day. It is usually done in the first days after your period ends. Not during your period.
- 2 days before. No sex, tampons, douching, or vaginal suppositories, unless your doctor says otherwise.
- Painkiller. You can ask your doctor whether to take a painkiller beforehand.
What to bring
- Your referral
- Smear and colposcopy results
- A pad
- Your ID
How it goes
- You sit in the gynecological chair
- The doctor inserts a speculum and looks at the cervix through a colposcope, a magnifying device
- A solution is applied to the cervix to show the changed area
- Sometimes the area is numbed
- A tiny piece of tissue is taken with special forceps
- If it bleeds, the spot is treated
What you'll feel
- A brief pinch or cramp
- Period-like cramping for a few minutes
- Sometimes mild dizziness. Tell the doctor
Afterwards
- Light bloody or dark discharge, usually for a few days
- No sex, tampons, baths, or pools, usually for 1 to 2 weeks. Your doctor will say exactly
- Your doctor will explain the result at your visit
Contact a doctor straight away if
- Bleeding like a heavy period
- A fever over 38°C (100.4°F), severe pain, or bad-smelling discharge
Common questions
If they are doing a biopsy, does it mean cancer?
No. Most often the changes are benign. A biopsy is needed to know for sure.
Does it hurt?
Usually like a brief pinch and cramp. It does not last long.