A cervical biopsy is a simple surgical operation that involves removing a sample of tissue from the cervix, the cylinder-shaped structure that connects the vaginal and uterine canals. If you had an abnormal Pap smear, if your healthcare practitioner noticed an abnormality during a routine pelvic exam, or if you are at high risk of cervical cancer, you may need a cervical biopsy.

The purpose of cervical biopsy, why it's needed, how it's done, and what happens with the results will all be discussed in this article.

Purpose of Cervical Biopsy 

Cervical biopsies are crucial for detecting malignant or precancerous cells. A positive Pap smear, a positive test for high-risk strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), abnormalities discovered during a pelvic examination, abnormal imaging test results that suggest cervical cancer, such as computed tomography (CT) scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or ultrasound, and symptoms of cervical cancer, such as vaginal bleeding after sexual intercourse, irregular or heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, or vagi are all reasons for

A cervical biopsy is also performed to diagnose genital warts or cervical polyps. A cervical biopsy may be performed on a lady whose mother used diethylstilbestrol (DES) while she was pregnant.

From 1938 through 1971, DES was used to avoid miscarriage, preterm delivery, and other problems. When researchers discovered that the medicine raised the incidence of reproductive malignancies in the daughters of women who took it during pregnancy, it was phased out in the United States in 1971.

Risks 

For the most part, a cervical biopsy is risk-free for most women. Light bleeding is the most common problem associated with the surgery. Infection, an incompetent cervix (see pregnancy concerns below), and pelvic discomfort are more significant consequences.

A cone biopsy, in particular, can result in significant bleeding and (though uncommon) infection, tissue destruction, vaginal tears, uterine perforation necessitating surgical repair, or menstrual flow disruption (cervical stenosis due to scarring).

Pregnancy-Related Risks 

Because of an incompetent cervix, some cervical biopsy procedures may increase the risk of premature birth. This is a worry when more than 1 centimeter (approximately 1/2 inch) of tissue is removed, and it is more likely if a woman bears child within a year of the treatment. 

Contraindications 

Women with acute pelvic inflammatory disease or cervix inflammation should usually wait until their symptoms have subsided before undergoing a cervical biopsy.

During early pregnancy, a cervical biopsy is normally safe, though bleeding may occur. By analyzing Pap screening findings, any history of abnormal Pap smears, and any history of HPV infections, the advantages vs dangers for each person must be carefully considered.

Before the Procedure 

If you're allergic or sensitive to any drugs or latex, let your doctor know. It's also crucial to notify your doctor about any medications you're taking, as some of them can raise your risk of bleeding. Aspirin, Advil (ibuprofen), Aleve (naproxen), and blood thinners like Coumadin are among these drugs (warfarin).

Before your cervical biopsy, your healthcare practitioner will advise you if and when you should stop taking these medications. Do not use tampons, vaginal creams or medicines, or douche for 24 hours before a cervical biopsy, and do not engage in sexual activity for 24 hours before the procedure.

Recovery 

Mild cramping, spotting, and dark or black-colored discharge are common side effects of a cervical biopsy. The dark discharge is due to the anti-bleeding medication that was administered to your cervix.

Take a pain reliever for cramping if necessary, as directed by your healthcare practitioner. After a cervical biopsy, most healthcare experts advise avoiding intercourse or using tampons for up to two weeks. It's also possible that some activities will be prohibited. It may take many weeks to fully recover from a cone biopsy.