Endometrial Biopsy
Endometrial Biopsy
by Carolyn
Why Would You be Doing an Endometrial Biopsy?
An endometrial biopsy is typically done when (not surprisingly) your doctor suspects you have a problem with your endometrium. Such problems can include endometrial hyperplasia, low estrogen or progesterone, and endometrial cancer. Blood tests are a more common (and less painful) way of detecting progesterone and estrogen problems. Endometrial hyperplasia and cancer are very rare in women under 40. Nonetheless, if you have problems with LP spotting and your progesterone levels are normal, an endometrial biopsy might be a good idea.
What You Can Expect
The biopsy is an outpatient procedure that only takes 10-15 minutes to complete. Before the biopsy you should take something for the pain, since the procedure isn’t performed under sedation. My doctor gave me the option to take 2 Percosets an hour beforehand. Two or three tablets of Motrin is an option if you don’t want to (or can’t) take something stronger.
The first stage of the biopsy is very similar to a normal PAP smear. After you get comfortable in the stirrups, your doctor will insert a speculum. If your cervix isn’t at the right angle, your doctor will need to use a tenaculum to move it into position. This does hurt, because the tenaculum has pincers that grip your cervix and usually cause some bleeding. After that, your doctor will dilate your cervix and insert a Pipelle aspirator, which uses suction to collect the sample. You’ll feel cramping and then a pulling as the aspirator gathers its sample. If you’ve had an HSG, this part of the biopsy will feel very familiar.
After the doctor has collected a large enough sample, he/she will remove the instruments, and you’re done! If the doctor needed to use a tenaculum, they will probably use some silver nitrate to stop the bleeding on your cervix.
Post-biopsy, you may have some cramping and tenderness, and your doctor will probably recommend that you take more pain medication that night. For what it’s worth, I felt absolutely no pain after getting home and didn’t need to take more painkillers. You’ll probably experience some spotting, possibly as heavy as a period. If you start bleeding more than that, or the bleeding lasts longer than a day or two, call your doctor.
Lab results should be available within a week. Before you leave, ask your doctor when you can schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss them.
Problems That Might Arise
The main problems you can encounter when doing an endometrial biopsy are pain and bleeding after the procedure. For the pain, my doctor recommended Motrin, but also gave me two extra Percosets just in case I needed them.
If you experience heavy bleeding (heavier than your period) or the bleeding continues for more than a day or two, call your doctor. It’s unusual, but it does happen. Also, try to refrain from any strenuous physical activity for a few days after the procedure. See below for my personal story about why this is a good idea.
Personal Tips
Anything you can do to relax while you’re on the table will help make the procedure less uncomfortable. I did deep breathing exercises until after the sample had been collected. DEFINITELY take some kind of pain medication beforehand.
One of the things I really appreciated before the biopsy started was having my doctor explain to me which instruments she would be using and why. She also told me what she was going to do before she used each instrument. If your doctor doesn’t take a minute to walk you through the procedure before starting it, I recommend that you ask them to do so. Relaxing was much easier when I knew what she was doing and why.
Take it easy for a few days after the procedure. You don’t have to go on bedrest or anything, but try to refrain from any strenuous physical activity. I made the mistake of hauling some heavy things up and down stairs the day after my biopsy and spent the following day regretting it from the couch because it felt like someone had kicked me in the gut every time I moved. Be ye not so stupid.
As a final note, if you take Percoset or other narcotic painkiller beforehand, be sure to have someone at the clinic with you to drive you home. Not only can these painkillers impair your ability to operate a car, but they can also make you extremely nauseated. Let’s face it, no one wants to drive when all they really want to do is throw up.
719 comments
My doctor was doing a different test and then decided to do the biospy so I had no pain meds – not so much fun. But it was quick. The worst was the cramping afterwards – as I had had nothing for that. The cramping was worse than labour. Luckily my mom had insisted on coming with me as I passed out in the waiting room on the way out.
Thanks for posting this. I’m scheduled for this procedure this afternoon, and only last night realized that the doctor did not specify why she ordered the test, nor did anyone explain the procedure or give me any information about it. (Thank god for the Internet!) After reading some horror stories of the pain, I had a minor anxiety attack and am considering rescheduling. Reading your account of the procedure and that it wasn’t so bad (for you, at least) is reassuring. Thanks!
I had this procedure done today. I was not expecting it. I’ve been experiencing heavy bleeding for over 14 days and doctor wanting to rule out cancerous cells. I had no pain meds prior. Procedure was definitely uncomfortable, but was over soon. Nurses asst led me through relaxation breathing during procedure. I experienced cramping immediately afterward, but no more severe than bad period cramps. Nothing like labor pains for me. Doctor gave me two Motrin after test and I had blood work done and then drove myself home with no further problems.
I had this procedure done today. I was not expecting it which is kind of good because I would have been very nervous. It was very uncomfortable nearing painful but it was pretty quick. I had no pain killers before (sure wish I had) but took some Motrin tonight and I feel just a little crampy. Good luck to anyone having this.
I do not know what some of you ladies are made of but it was the most excruciating pain I have ever had other than giving birth. I am still traumatized by it. I get very upset every time I think of it. It has been 4 days and I am still taking vicodin and bleeding. I had not idea the doc was going to do this procedure when I went in. I have been having a period for 5 weeks now. He, of course it was a HE, said it was needed and that I would only feel a SLIGHT PINCH-and it would be over. He gave me no pain medicine and did not tell me I would need any after. I almost fell off the table the pain was so excruciating – he clamped my cervix with this pronged clamp and pulled it down so he could insert the straw thing in my uterus to get the biopsy which also hurt. I called the doctors office later to get some strong pain medicine but, of course, they took all day to get it called in. I have been on it around the clock. When it wears out, I know it. The cramps are very bad and my cervix HURTS! I do not understand how my doctor or some of these people can say that the pain was MILD. I feel like suing my doctor. Of course, I won’t, but I am sooooo upset. DO NOT get this procedure without some major pain killers!
I really think it depends on your dr and the experience because I got mine done and I was fine a little uncomfortable but manageable. I didn’t really know how the procedure was going to go and then my dr started showing me all what he was going to use and the purpose for each one then I got nervous the nurse said she had one done before and gave me that look I was terrified then but then she said you have a wonderful dr he’s good. He walked me through the procedure explaining every step. I did feel the small pinch not too bad and I did feel the instrument he put through my uterus a little cramping there but I was fine. The nurse couldn’t believe it she said hers was terrible and she was in so much pain with hers. I didn’t need any pain killers at all afterwards just a little bleeding and cramping here and there but not bad.
Michelle, I am right there with you. This was so horrible for me. When I first had the consult, the doctor made it seem like it was no problem. It’s been 4 days later and I still am sore, I feel like puking and get upset everytime I think of it. I thought I was going crazy from still feeling ill but then I took to the Internet to see if I wasn’t the only one. After the precedure, I almost passed out and thought I was going to throw up.
I read this site and several others before my endometrial biopsy this afternoon and got really worried. But, it was no big deal. In fact, I felt silly that I had my husband leave work to be with me. I’m 39 with zero pregnancies, so I thought it would be bad. But, there was only brief pain (enough to make me say “Holy Crap!” but nothing more than PG-rated) and no bleeding. My doctor had me take misoprotol (sp?) beforehand to soften/ open the cervix, and I had a couple of Advil in advance. No lidocaine or other pain killer applied to the cervix. The pain was brief, and the cramping was minimal afterward. (Frankly, my lupron shot was more painful than the endometrial biopsy!) Just wanted to add a “positive” to so many scary experiences– but my heart goes out to those of you who have bad experiences.
I had this recently with absolutely no pain medication before or after. My RE said it did not hurt, upon some proding from me, he said I might feel a discomfort like menstrual cramps. The pinching of my cervix was uncomfortable, but not unbearable. As he took the sample I did feel something like a strong menstrual cramp. Then it was over. I cramped slightly for like an hour afterward and I had no bleeding. I did not have to take anything afterward, though I would have taken it for comfort only. I have endometriosis and I am used to tolerating pain and pelvic discomfort. I would say it was uncomfortable but nothing to loose sleep over. I was just slightly more uncofortable than a PAP.
OK. So I had my biopsy done two weeks ago. They found nothing abnormal. Good news, but still no answers. I bled for almost a week after the procedure, much like a menstrual period but heavier. I was mid cycle when I had it done, and now it’s time for my period and nothing (there can’t be anything left!). I called the DR about bleeding, was told it was normal (???). I have concerns about my cycles going back to normal, and what are the chances of pregnancy right after a biopsy?
I found the procedure to be very painful (comparable to contractions) and wish I had brought someone along to drive me home. I felt twinges and mild cramps for a few days afterward. Has anyone else had similar experiences?
Thanks, Jen
I just had this test done. I was not given any instructions as to how to prepare, what it was for, or how it would feel. I did not take any pain meds before hand. They gave me a shot it the cervix to numb it (this DID NOT hurt, but I don’t think it helped either) Then when they did the proceedure I felt several sharp pains and cramps-enough to make me cry and ask him to stop, but it was over fast. It thought, this wasn’t so bad. But I was having REALLY BAD menstrual like cramps and the nurse gave me a glass of water and meds and they had me lie down and she left for a minute. While she was gone I became disoriented, couldn’t remember where I was, and passed out on the table! She found me soaked with water and my cup clear accross the room! I then became hot, sweaty and sick to my stomach. They asked if anyone could pick me up and drive me home. (Shouldn’t they have told me all this ahead of time?)I spent 2 hours lying down in the office before I was okay to drive and even then I was in pain and “out of it”. The next few days I was very sore “down there” and wished i didn’t have to work. Bleeding wasn’t bad and I’m fine now. Just take meds, ask questions, and BRING SOMEONE WITH YOU! I wish I had. OH< I'm no wuss about pain, I've given birth without meds, this is comparable!!!
I had a bad experience a few days ago…I am 55 and dr wants to rule out problems (I still get some periods and have one fibroid)…I had this procedure 3 times before…all 3 past experiences (many yrs ago ..for infertility) were no picnic, but with female drs “walking me through it”, it was tolerable (tho’ once i was quite light-headed after one time)…the cramping was intense, but quick. THIS time, however, the severity of the pain was totally unexpected!!! It was quick, thankfully, but I still feel traumetized. The cervix was too tight fot the PA to do the procedure…so the dr (male), who I’d never met, did it…the cervix had to be dilated ..the dr never tiold me what he was doing…thankfully a nurse was a bit more involved…brief tho the sharp pain was acroos my whole abdomin, I found it more painful in intensity (NOT duration, thankfully) of childbirth with no meds. I’ve been crampy for a few days, just slight bleeding the first day…but next time, a sedative i think! 3 tylenol prior was a JOKE! I prayed for those in much worse pain as I was on the table and did the deep breathing, and afterwards the nurse had me rest 15 min before getting up. Don’t mean to scare anyone, as it IS quick…minutes I’d say of the intense pain for me, but to reassure those who’ve had it they are not crazy if they experienced PAIN.
I had this yesterday and it really hurt. The doctor had told me take Advil and had warned me of pain. Stupid me I only took one Advil but I have to say I don’t think more would have helped because the pain is too acute. I think of Advil as more for aches/cramps and this was definite sharp pain. Didn’t last long but it was painful enough I had to start breathing almost like labor (I’ve never had kids, just from what I’ve seen) to get through it. Again, it didn’t last long though, but I think if I had it again I’d ask for real pain meds even though it’d mean I’d need someone to drive me home. I started spotting right after and today I feel like I just started my period (which I’m thinking I might have since it was scheduled for 3 days from today anyway). Honestly I feel slightly feverish so I’ll have to watch that I guess.
I had one done 2 weeks tomorrow. It was hell very painfull, had some spotting of blood. Then 2 days later heavy bleeding, now it’s back to light pink spotting of blood. Anyone know what i should do?
Thank you all who shared your experiences – clearly people react very differently to this procedure and it helped me a lot to hear what might happen.
I had the biopsy done Wednesday and my OB/Gyn did tell me to take pain meds beforehand. Two Advil probably helped a bit but I wish I had had some stronger stuff. The setup was ok but the actual biopsy was surprisingly uncomfortable. I did not move but I did moan and gargle for a bit until they, shortly, were done. After that I have had some discomfort (cramps and tenderness) and some bleeding. At four days after the procedure I am surprised to still be in a bit of pain and hope it will be gone soon. I can work without problems, but I am constantly aware of my body.
After 15 months without my period, I just got it . (I’m 52) So my Dr. with perform the endometrial biopsy next week. 2 yrs ago I also had one to check on fibroids. They were benign. But the test was not. No one said to take painkillers beforehand. I nearly fainted. My blood pressure fell way down. I ended up laying myself on the floor, much to the chagrin of the office manager. She told me to go back to the examining room. I didn’t have the strength to speak and tell her to go jump off a bridge. Thank goodness my partner was with me to tell her.
I am greatfull for the info. Ibuprofin upsets my stomach. I will call ahead and ask for a drug that works for me. I do not want a repeat of the last time. The Med web sites are not written by anyone who has had this procedure. It can be painful enough to make you faint.
For me, the pain was searing and basically excruciating. The only “good” thing about this procedure is that it is kind of brief (though those few minutes do seem to last forever!). I was squeezing the nurse’s hand, grimacing in pain, and afterwards I was super woozy. Definitely felt like passing out just after it was over. Just had this procedure done this morning, and I’m still feeling a bit light-headed and sick to my stomach. My cramps are tolerable, and my bleeding is about like it would be on the first or second day of my period.
I had no idea how bad this would be so painful. Just before the procedure, a nurse suggested I down some Advil, but I wish they’d have supplied something much stronger. Why is this procedure done without decent painkillers? I’ve never had children, and I wonder if this is something like labour. This is probably the worst pain I’ve ever experienced, even worse than my most brutal migraines.
Just as a point of interest, I went in for this biopsy one month after a D&C revealed that I have cancer in my uterus. Since my diagnosis, I’ve been on a comprehensive, alternative health program in hopes of reversing my cancerous cells. The program has included: laetrile, hoxsey tonic, vitamin D, intravenous vitamin C, and much more. I hope the pain I went through today will soon bring me some positive news.
Good luck to anyone who is reading this before having an endometrial biopsy. I hope you will be among those who don’t experience too much pain.
I will have an endometrial biopsy this week and I’m so scared—and have thought about cancelling. Do you think taking a 5 mg. vicodin table beforehand will help to reduce the pain?
I am having this procedure on Monday. I am glad I found this site. My doc (a male of course) didn’t tell me to take pain meds before hand or anything. He said it will be just like having a pap smear. I am worried now. But I will definitely be taking my mom along to drive me home in case I pass out or something.
Hi guys
I had biopsy which weren’t too bad weren’t the easiest thing ive went through but not the worst.
After a smear i recieved a letter saying’I had a high grade pre-cancer problem’ thats when they gave me the biopsy never heard anything from that either,
In the meantime i recieved another letter saying i had to go to the coloscopy to get the cells moved from my cervix which was it all!And they had to go abit deeper too,
Well i went for my appointment after having my mam and my sister go through the same procedure but not quite all of their cervix needed as much treatment as myself,
So i thought well they are saying this is nothing and not to worry about it and i didn’t until i was there on the bed and the work started.
The male consultant had given me 3 needles in my cervix and they bloody hurt!After the needles he continued to lasor the Affected cervix God hey never felt pain like it in my life!
Sorry if i’m scaring you ladies about this procedure i dont mean to!But i would rather you’s be prepared for this than not like i was told aload of rubbish ie it was nothing what aload of rubbish!
They have told me this is nothing to protect me i soppose or i would not have gone and had this done and i kind of understand where they were coming from in telling me it was nothing,
If i didnt go how long would it have been for them to tell me everyones dreaded news i have cancer for this i am very pleased i went and got the Abnormalties corrected,
For all you ladies you do bleed after this procedure for 6 weeks which i was never told by the consultant but my mam and sister who went through this,
I dont think they tell us enough on this after the prep has been done which i find would help if they give a little more thought to,
I think they keep alot under their hat whereas they could give us a leaflet on what to expect after procedure is done only to tell us not to excercise or have sex for 4 weeks and thats all we get told rediculous,
But You ladies just prepare yourselves and do get it done,It needs doing for a reason xxx
Me either was not told to take pain killers as such so i didn’t!
So if you ladies want to take strong pain killers do before hand!
After the procedure you will experience a bad smell but this is normal,Dont worry lasts for upto a week x
I had this procedure 3 days ago. I was on my 5-6th day of my period, so it wasn’t too bad (my doctor didn’t have to open my cervix). I cramped up a bit when they took the biopsy but after that it just felt like mild cramps. I was okay to drive myself back to work. I did take 4 Ibruprofen before a few hours before I went to the doctor. I’m still spotting a bit but no cramps now. I just have to wait for the news. I go back into the office in two weeks to get the results.
OMG.. You ladies are scaring the daylights out of me. I am having this procedure in 2 days. And have to return to work right after it. I work at a ship port as traffic manager. I do alot of walking. Holy #&%$!!!
I do have access to darvocets and lortabs… But no one to go with me or drive me home. My hubby works overseas and wont be home for 10 more days.
Wish me luck ladies.. This site has given me more info than any other. Thanks.
Texas
I too had this test today, unexpectedly. I have been having super heavy bleeding for 8 days and went to a GYN I had not been to before. She was great, but as I had no pain killers “onboard” before hand, it hurt like @&#*@!!! I have had bone surgeries and sinus surgeries that hurt less than this test. And she did TWO biopsies, meaning 2 entries into my cervix. When she said “again” I nearly fainted just from hearing her say that. The biggest blessing is it is quite quick. She did use some type of numbing medicine to be able to hold my cervix, have no clue if it helped. The sharpest pain is the entry of the skinny tube into the cervix. Then severe cramping afterward. As I was already bleeding heavily, I can’t compare to the bleeding afterward. Although the cramping was quite painful it didn’t last longer than a few hours. Yes, it is a painful test and I would absolutely recommend asking for some pain medication to take prior. Just remember it is necessary and there could be worse! Don’t cancel your test, just get some drugs to take before you have it!
Hello ladies. Just had the procedure done today, and I can tell you that it didn’t hurt much at all. After reading some of the posts here yesterday, I was very apprehensive and afraid. Sometimes it’s better not to read about people’s experiences, because everybody reacts differently. I just took 3 motrins 1 hour before the procedure. No big deal! When I had my IUD inserted years ago, it hurt 10 times more. Just take a pain killer before, and keep calm. I doubt it this will be the worse pain anybody has ever experienced!
Just got told that I needed the biopsy, After reading all these blogs I feel much better knowing that there are other wusses out there like me. Several years ago I attempted to go through this procedure and after several minutes of digging around up there, the nurse’s assistant declared she could not find my cervix. I told her we’re done and she need not try any further. It was the most painful thing I have experienced and with no results. Based on that experience, I told my new doctor that she really needs to knock me out else I will be doing the backstroke while she’s trying to get a sample. She recommended valium – I still think I need to be knocked out. These procedures seem to be done by someone who’s never had one.
Had this procedure done yesterday, my cervix kept rolling, so they had to hold it which was painful, Felt a little like labor pains, or a bad cramping memstrual cycle. Mine is being done to check the cause for heavy bleeding and to determine the need for surgery for cysts on my ovaries and fallopian tube. Also somehow Acute Pancreatitis is tied into this. I do recommend pain meds beforehand, I had none, and it was uncomfortable. Deep breathing and relaxing your legs helps alot. It was over quickly, a little nausea and cramping today is all.
I had this procedure done almost one week ago. Still waiting for the results. It is painful with severe cramping during the procedure. I did not have any painkillers beforehand, I really wish I would have. Mary
If you tend to cramp or bleed heavily, use up to 800 mg ibuprophen (Advil is a brand name). Uterine cramps are caused by our body’s prostaglandins. So ibuprophen is a good anti-prostaglandin, aspirin a weaker anti-prostaglandin. Tylenol (acetominiphen) is NOT an anti-prostaglandin. valium does nothing for uterine cramps. vicodin is a narcotic & may help & make you stupid – ibuprophen will help more. (I am 58 years old & have had 2 of these biopsies – the easy one was when I took 800 mg of ibuprophen 1 hour BEFORE my appointment & took 400 mg 4 hours after the 1st dose.
It tends to creep you out when you are young & it sounds like some of the women went into mild shock (I would go into shock when I was young with IUD insertions). Deep breathing, focusing & talking about other things tends to help. This site is great!
I had this procedure done 3 days ago. The only positive thing about it was that it did not last very long. It was very painful – even after taking 800 mg of Motrin beforehand. Everyone will react differently, because everyones body is different ! In reading this site – it looks like a varied set of experiences. I do NOT believe that others should question or belittle anothers’ experience. As for me – I wish that I was knocked out (even for a short period of time). I am bleeding and cramping still. I wish they would have told me what to expect.
I had this procedure done about 6 weeks ago, although I don’t see anyone on here having it done for the reason I did. They performed this on me while I was miscarrying- the reason they did it was because before I miscarried they believed I had an ectopic pregnancy and they wanted to know for sure or not if it was one (it wasn’t). Please ladies, if you are getting this test done and you can get your hands on a painkiller- do it! (I wish I had). Ibuprofen does not do A THING! I’ve never had a procedure done like this before and when I walked in and saw all the ‘tools’ I wanted to run away! During it, they had to use a tenaculum to hold my cervix open which hurt pretty badly but the straw they use to suction the lining of your entometrial lining hurt so bad that I cried. Before the doc started the procedure, she told me she was going to try it with no ‘shot in the cervix for numbing’ because everyone takes the pain differently. During it, I started sweating and got so hot I felt like I was in a sauna.. it was excruciating. Very unbearable.. I probably asked her to stop 10 times. (She didn’t). So ladies, as I said- if you can get painkillers… take one!!!
Afterward, I was already miscarrying so I can’t tell you if the procedure made me bleed but I did have mild cramping for the rest of the day.
I think I know why there is all this varying degree of pain here. The amount of pain you will experience is directly related to three things: First of all, there are four different procedures for getting an EMB, or an endometrial biopsy. Find out which one you’ll be receiving because some are more painful than others. The second reason that this procedure may affect women differently, is related to whether you’ve had children or not. Women who’ve NOT had children will have a more difficult time with the procedure because their cervix has not been stretched from childbirth. And lastly, smaller women will also have a more difficult time because their cervix is naturally smaller. I hope this helps a bit. You should still have this procedure done, but just go in informed and ask questions beforehand. Pain killers before procedure is definitely recommended. Have doctor prescribe something. Go to this website: http://women.webmd.com/women-medical-reference/endometrial-biopsy
I sure wish I’d seen this site before my endo biopsy! Naturally, my MALE doc never mentioned taking anything for pain either before OR after and I never thought to research it because it was made out as “no big deal” and nothing to think twice about. It’s interesting on this borard that those who have had kids and/or knew to take somekind of pain reliever ahead of time had an easier time with this. My cervix was numbed somewhat but my experience was frankly excruciating, and the cramping only got worse. About six hours later it was so bad I could not unbend from the fetal position–endometirosis, HSG with the tech helpfully trying to force liquid through blocked tubes and the most horrible post-surgical cramping were all nothing to compare with it. I’m pretty tough and never used Rx painkillers but was near tears not just because of the unexpected intensity of the pain but fear something was seriously wrong because NOTHING was ever said about cramping being normal or to expect bleeding! (Or that my interior would also be sore for days. I also was not told about refraining from sex or heavy lifting, though in that condition there was no chance of either).
Doc blandly insisted it was “spastic colon, as no pain could possibly be associated with the procedure”. Um, right.
I do not and never have had a “spastic colon” and found this attitude beyond insulting. Even worse, I got to foot the bill for the $425 lab fee (insurance would not reinburse). A friend drove me to my family physician, who reassured me it was okay and her cramping lasted two days but was nto as severe. Then she gave me some Norco and suggested double doses of ibuprofen until it resolved. God bless her.
I don’t want to scare anyone from a necessary procedure. Rather, I want to help others to understand what might happen so they can hopefully have an easier time of it by being fully prepared in EVERY regard and thus LESS fearful.
I just got through having the procedure and with the exception of some cramping when the doctor placed the tenaculum, it was no worse than a regular pelvic exam. I am having some post-procedure cramping and bleeding so doctor suggested I “take it easy” today. However, I don’t think anyone should be fearful of this procedure, it really was not that bad at all. Hope this helps reassure the anxious patient (I was extremely nervous after hearing horror stories and reading some of the posts on here). Might be that some women have lower pain threshold, but honestly, this was a piece of cake I mean peice of endometrium 🙂
I had an endometrial biopsy this am. It took under 5 mins for everything and I only felt slight pain from the clamp. Barely felt the actual biopsy. I took 2 Motrin beforehand only after reading all the horror stories on this site. I wish I hadnt google it beforehand because I was a nervous wreck for 2 wks for NO reason! Ladies, dont be nervous -its only a drop more uncomfortable than a Pap.
I had the biopsy today. I felt nothing – maybe all of the horror stories prepared me mentally, but it was nothing! No cramps at all! I’ve had 3 children so maybe I’m just numb inside?!?!
I took 2 Advil a few hours before procedure. I have been on a daily dose of baby aspirin – maybe that helped? Honestly – no pain!
I had this test this afternoon. Thanks for the advice to take ibuprofen ahead of time, but the other comments really scared me unneccessarily. It is short and not as painful as I had been expecting.
So, take heart.
I had this procedure done two days ago. I was totally unprepared. My doctor’s office had told me to expect a pelvic exam. I had taken no pain killers ahead of time. And I had gone to the office myself. I had a male doctor (not my regular ob/gyn. From reading the posts, male doctors seem totally oblivious to the pain, which, for me was excrutiating. I am still obsessing about it. I feel almost like I am suffering from post traumatic stress. I wish I had known beforehand. I definitely would have taken something for the pain.
After reading all of these posts last night, I was really scared about having my biopsy done this morning. The procedure is VERY quick and I only experienced a small amount of pain while he was doing it. I didn’t take anything for pain before I went. I felt sort of silly for getting myself all worked up over it:) My doctor asked me how much sleep I lost over it last night…lol! A lot!:) I’m feeling a little crampy, but it’s bearable. The only thing that I wasn’t prepared for was the bleeding. I thought there might be some spotting, but it’s more than that. I’m back @ work now and wasn’t prepared for that, so I’m hoping I can hold out until 4:30pm! Just try to stay calm ladies! I know I was having a panic attack yesterday, while I was reading these posts! Again…the procedure is very quick!!! Keep that in mind:) Good luck to everyone!!!
I had the biopsy done with little explanation. My Dr said it was to predict ovulation, but later I found out a blood test would have told me the same thing. I have had several episodes of pain in my life, herniated discs, pinched nerves, shots in my spine with no sedation, major knee surgury. None of them compare to the pain I had. It only lasted a hour or so after. But I strained so hard that I pulled something in my abdomen which still hurts when I exercise. Also I have had almost a years worth of irregular period following this procedure. I’m talking about a period every 16-21 days. That doesn’t help you get pregnant. We’ve been trying for a year and a half now with no luck following this procedure. Be careful ladies!
My biopsy was done two days ago. I was not told to take any pain meds prior to the procedure or afterward. My doctor did take the time to explain the procedure and tools being used. He also forewarned when I might feel a pinch/cramp. He was accurate each time, and each cramp was short in duration. I expected some spotting and or cramping afterward, and was surprised that both were scant/
minimal the day of the procedure and the day after. However, to my surprise the bleeding and cramping became intense and constant 2 days afterward. I am anxious for tomorrow & hoping that “this too shall pass”. My greatest concern is the diagnosis- abnormal or normal cells. Waiting is so frightful.
Jen,
Did you ever find out your results? Had the biopsy one week ago (very painful).I to have a similar experience, bleeding between periods and now that I’m suppossed to have my period, nothing!
I had my biopsy 12/18 my doctor advised me that I can take tylenol, mortrin or advil. I took one tylenol an hour before my biopsy. The procedure was fine I had no cramping. I was thinking maybe I am not too sensitive for pain. with my two pregnancies I didn’t ask for epidural or any pain medicine. I was thinking my OBGYN was too good for the procedure. After the biopsy I was even brought my 2 children for dentist appointment.
Hi I am due to have one of these soon, and I calculated that my period is due at that time,doe anyone know if can I still have this done?
I am scheduled to have this proceudre on MOnday (New Years Eve) and I am nervous. I have not been prescribed any pain medication for before hand. I am wondering if I can call my doctor to see that morning if she can prescribe something. Do you think that would help with the pain? I am 38 without children, and have been through 2 surgeries already for my periods. I had a period for 2 1/2 months. They said that I have adenomyosis and hyperplasia. Does anyone know much about either of these?
My Endometiral Biopsy was done two days ago. I was one of the lucky ones that has a doctor that believes in preparing the patient for this procedure. I was given Misoprostol to take, one a day for three days before the procedure. This medication helps dilate your cervix. I’m 42 and never been pregnate or given birth, so I appreciated this medication. It made it so much easier for the tools to pass through the cervix and into the uterus. My doctor told me to take four Advil an hour before the procedure. I asked if Flexril would be better and she said, “Oh Yes”. During the procedure she took the time to explain what she was doing and how it would feel. Yes it is uncomfortable, yes it does hurt. On the way to the procedure my husband stopped for a coke and some Twizzlers. I thought of those Twizzlers throughout the procedure. Why you ask? Because that is what it reminded me of. Think of a Twizzler being inserted into your uterus and spun around really fast about seven times. Hitting different parts of the uterus and scrapping away cells. And as this is happening you are cramping really bad. Best to do deep breathing throughout this. There you go, you just experienced an endometrial biopsy. But wait…. the doctor wants to make sure she got enough, so she gives you a little break and starts the Twizzlers spinning again. Yes it hurts, but at the same time I was having this done, my 12 yr old niece was having spine surgery. So I told myself, if she can handle that, I sure can handle this. My advise to others, if a doctor tells you they want to perform an endometrial biopsy now, tell them no, you can reschedule it for another time to make sure you have time for pain killers to kick in, your cervix to be dilated, and someone there with you to drive you home. As for me, it’s two days later and only spotting blood, soreness in vagina, and just had my first bad cramp, so I just took three Advil.
Regarding having a period through the procedure…. as long as the bleeding is light, they can do it. I was on day five of my period when I had it done.
Regarding not given anything to take before the procedure, most doctors recommend four Advils, make sure you eat something with this. Take them an hour before the procedure. But call their office and double check with them that it is ok to take.
It amazes me how many doctors don’t take the time to explain this procedure and prepare you for it. Makes me wonder if all those doctors are males.
Okay, here’s one for you. I went in for my annual exam and the doctor decided to do the biopsy right then because I told her I was having irregular periods. The procedure was definitely not uncomfortable, but not brutal. However, shortly after she completed the procedure, I passed out, while lying on the examining table with the doctor still in the office. I then felt nauseous and began throwing up (they didn’t have a basin, so the nurse gave me a wastebasket). I began sweating like crazy and nearly dissolved the paper on the table. Then I got the chills and asked for a blanket. They didn’t have one and the nurse gave me someone’s fleece jacket to cover me. I passed out a second time and when the nurse came in to check on me I told her. By that time I was pretty out of it and they let me rest in the office. After a while the nurse came back and said that I looked better and could think about getting up to get dressed and leave. I said I was feeling better but as I was getting dressed, I felt nauseous again and laid back down on the table and leaned over to get sick in the wastebasket. I must have passed out a third time and because I was leaning over the table, I rolled off and landed on my face. I woke up in a pool of blood, with a broken crown, a broken tooth, a sliced chin, and a jammed jaw. They transported me to the E.R. ( a hospital is attached to the medical office building) where I had to have six stiches and they kept me in most of the day. I had to have a friend come pick me up because there was no way I could drive. When I got home, I had to sit down twice between the car and the door to my house. What should have been a simple procedure turned into a nightmare and is costing me thousands of dollars in unanticipated medical/dental bills. No way I’m going back to THAT doctor in Parker, COlorado.
I had this procedure done twice with the same doctor. The first time my doctor advised me to take two Advil 1 hour before the procedure. It took over 15 minutes and hurt alot. The second time I took matter into my own hands. I called my doctor to tell him I would be taking 1 oxycodone 1 hour before. He said OK but I need someone to drive me home. I don’t know whether it was the medication or the fact that my doctor had 10 years more experience in doing the procedure but I felt NO PAIN. I asked him and he said it was the oxycodone that helped but this time it only took 5 minutes total. My advice to you all. Get a good experienced doctor and get medication for the procedure. Most of these doctors are males and have no clue as to the amount of pain involved. If they wanted to do it without meds RUN!!!!!!!!!
PS
I just posted my experience with the oxycodone. I forgot to let you know. I took 1/2 pill before leaving his office and then 1/2 pill when I felt any slight pain that day only. In total I think I took 4 pills. No pain. Good luck.
Hi
My doctor attempted the endometrial biopsy today..extremely painful..nearly passed out..water poured off me from sweating to the point of almost fainting. The doctor said she stopped the procedure when she saw the water beading and trickling off my legs. Some cold wash cloths..and a glass of juice helped me recover. The doctor is re-scheduling to have it done under general Anaesthetic. I wouldn’t advise anyone to get this done while being awake. My abdomen is still tender and cramping just from the attempt at doing the procedure.
Has anyone had any problem with their next period after the endometrial biopsy? I should have started three days ago. I have the cramps and all the fun stuff that comes along with it, but no blood. My last period was 12/21 and that one was just spotty. Then I had the endometrial biospy on 12/27th and spotted until 12/31. I know I’m not pregnate, because I haven’t done anything for awhile. Any ideas?
I am 58 last year after 13 months got period had biopsy in office everything was ok hurt like hell. Now here I am again November turned 58 got period again another biopsy in office the most painful thing other then childbirth test results thank God normal was told because overweight estrogen builds up in fat cell and scared to death said could erupt cancer cells. Here it is January 21, and I am having another period with cramps and I am scared to death don’t understand all this. Want it to go away and I am afraid to have D & C. Someone who is scared please let me know if symptoms are similiar. Thank You