Endometrial Biopsy

What is an Endometrial Biopsy?

An endometrial biopsy is a test that evaluates the endometrial tissue that lines the inside walls of your uterus. Around the time you ovulate (release an egg from your ovary), your endometrium (inside lining of your uterus) grows thick with blood vessels, glands, and stored nutrients to allow an embryo to implant and grow. If implantation does not occur, the endometrial tissue sheds as menstrual flow to mark the beginning of your next cycle. Estrogen and progesterone control growth and stabilization of the endometrial tissue.

How is this test performed?

Your doctor will place a speculum inside your vagina, insert a small catheter through your cervix into your uterus, and remove a small sample of the endometrial lining. It usually takes just a few seconds. You may feel a pinch or some cramping.

What can I expect after the procedure?

You may have mild cramps an hour or so after the procedure and you may also have vaginal spotting. Light bleeding
and spotting can last until you have your period.

When will I receive the results of this test?

Results for this test will be reviewed and discussed with you during your follow up consult with your doctor.

Does this test have to be done on a specific day of my cycle?

Yes. The timing of the biopsy is based upon the indication for performing the procedure.
• Endometritis – can be performed during any part of the cycle, preferably follicular phase to avoid disrupting an
early pregnancy.
• Endometrial hyperplasia – can be performed during any part of the cycle, preferably follicular phase to avoid
disrupting an early pregnancy.
• Endometrial scratching – performed after ovulation (Day 21) of the cycle preceeding the embryo transfer.
• Endometrial receptivity assay (ERA) – performed 7 days after LH surge or 5 days after exposure to progesterone
during a “mock cycle.”

What are the risks of this procedure?

There is a slight chance that the biopsy may disrupt an early pregnancy if you happen to be pregnant when the test is performed. To avoid this potential problem, your doctor may want you to avoid pregnancy during the month you are taking this test. You will have a urine pregnancy test before you have the biopsy to make sure you are not pregnant.

Insurance questions

Most commonly an endometrial biopsy is considered a diagnostic evaluation. Our administration staff will be happy to assist you with your insurance coverage and patient responsibility.

 

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