Endometrial biopsy

An endometrial biopsy is taken to test your uterus lining for abnormal cells. A small sample of tissue is taken from your uterus during an endometrial biopsy. The sample of tissue is sent to a laboratory to be tested. Results of the test will normally be available about a week after the sample is taken.

You should not have an endometrial biopsy done if:

• There is any chance that you may be hapū
• You have heart disease, a blood disorder, or if you are taking any blood thinning medication
• You have a fever, pelvic pain, or discharge

Your nurse or doctor will talk you through the whole procedure. It's really important to us that you have full control over everything that happens with your body — nothing should ever happen that you don’t ask for and agree to.

Before your appointment

• It's a good idea to take pain relief — like ibuprofen or paracetamol — one or two hours before your appointment.
• Make sure you have something to eat and drink before your appointment. 

During your appointment

• Your nurse or doctor will begin your endometrial biopsy by doing an examination. This examination is to check the position of your uterus. Your nurse or doctor will do the examination by placing two fingers into your vagina, and their other hand on your lower belly.
• After the examination, a speculum is inserted into your vagina. A thin, flexible, hollow tube is used to take the biopsy. This tube is called a pipelle. The pipelle is slipped through your cervix into your uterus. A sample of your uterus lining is taken with gentle suction.
• Sometimes, an instrument will be placed on your cervix to steady your uterus, and the inside of your uterus will be measured.
• It is common to feel strong period-like cramps during the procedure — but this usually settles quickly after the procedure is finished.

After your appointment

• Some people feel a little lightheaded or sick after their appointment. It’s a good idea to get someone to drive you home, if you feel lightheaded or sick.
• You may have some light bleeding and some cramps for a couple of days after your appointment.
• If you have pain or abnormal discharge for more than 48 hours after your appointment, please call and let us know.

Need urgent help?

If you require medical advice outside of our opening hours, call Healthline for free on 0800 611 116 anytime or get help from an after-hours medical centre. 

You can make an appointment with us for an endometrial biopsy.

If you have been referred by another health provider, please bring your referral letter. You should also bring other relevant information — such as results of a pelvic ultrasound scan.

An endometrial biopsy costs $17.50 plus a standard appointment fee for New Zealand residents, and $25 plus a standard appointment fee for non-residents. 

Our appointments are free for New Zealand residents under 22 years old. If you are 22 years, or older, you’ll pay our standard appointment fees – unless you have a Community Services Card.

If you’re not a New Zealand resident, you’ll need to pay non-resident fees.  

Check out our fees page for more details.