Hello everyone out there,

It seems like there are so many attentive ears out there that I thought I'd add this post, hoping maybe one of you could soothe my worries. I just had an endometrial biopsy on Friday. Today is Sunday. I'm still bleeding and cramping and feeling like lying on the sofa is the biggest accomplishment possible. Normally I am a VERY active woman and although I did have the same procedure a year and a half ago, I remember less bleeding and sort of snapping back in about a day.

Of course, this is a 3-day holiday weekend and there's no one to ask in the doctor's office. And no one I know has ever had this procedure.

I'm thinking it's just an nasty, invasive procedure and perhaps because I also have a fibroid, that's why I'm still bleeding and sore and generally miserable?

If any of you have also had such a biopsy, I would really appreciate hearing about how you were afterwards. I feel kind of like a wimp whining about this, since so many other people have had to have much more complex procedures, and never seem to discuss the after-affects much, but I am worried, and everyone seems so nice on this site that I was hoping  for some info. Oddly, the doctor never mentioned that I would feel miserable after, she said simply, "Oh, you may have some spotting for a day or so," as if I could merrily go on doing aerobics...mostly I just lay on the sofa taking Tylenol.

Hope everyone is having a good holiday though, and not laying on their sofas! Thanks in advance to anyone who answers.

Hi Sparks,    I hope that you are feeling better.   When I had an endometrial biopsy my GYN  told me that women react differently to the procedure.  Some have only mild discomfort similar to a pap smear through the levels to severe cramping.  Some have spotting and others something like a period.    I don't have a fibroid and they can be quite bothersome for some ladies.   So  I was in the lucky group with only a slight cramping during the procedure and nothing after.  My experience with cramping in general is that getting up and moving about even when I am sure I don't feel like it usually helps.  Our bodies do not appreciative any invasive procedures and to feel zapped of energy is likely a normal reaction for some women.   If you notice an increase in your symptoms/pain/bleeding, you can probably reach an emergency call back number for your dr even on the holiday weekend.   You definitely don't sound like a wimp!     Take care!      ~Helen

Dear MrsUnderstood,

Thank you so much for your response! I actually hauled myself out to a (very long) work-related function with my husband, and even though I looked like a drag queen and thought I was going to keel over en route, once I got there and saw cake (!) I felt a little better. It IS the simple things in life that keep us going.

I'm glad your biopsy didn't do the same thing to you, but so glad you shared the info your doctor gave you. I'd say what I'm having is definitly in the "like a really obnoxious period" category. I'm chugging Tylenol and going to hope it is better tomorrow and try to keep distracting myself. After all, it's the results that really worry me, now that at least the damn test is over, and I have to wait two weeks to find out what's going on in there.

Thanks again, so much, for taking the time to write. The few friends I told that this was going on were sympathetic but somewhat horrified, having never had it themselves. I do hope your holiday is a good one.

Cheers,Hobodo

hi sparks- hope you are feeling better- i've had an endometrial biopsy and felt that it was even more painful than the d&c i had in the dr's office without anesthesia-i don't  know why but for me the biopsy was the most painful experience i've ever had including childbirth-I almost passed out and felt like my body was in shock afterward. i don't remember much bleeding after and for me the procedure itself- not the after effects were the worst part. i also have fibroids and a tipped uterus so maybe that makes the difference in how each of us experiences a procedure like this.i recently had a d&c in the hospital  with anesthesia and it was so much more tolerable that way!  i hope you biopsy results are good- the waiting is so hard! Good Luck!                                                                kava                

Hi Kava,

Thanks for your post. Today is Wednesday and at last I am myself. It makes me feel sane to hear that you were a wreck after the same procedure. They make it seem like it's going to be as uncomfortable as having your eyebrows waxed, when as you described, my "whole body went into shock." The kind of pain I experienced after was so deep inside my body, like nothing else I'd had before. That's why I was worried the doctor had punctured my liver or something.

Like you, I have a tipped uterus and fibroids, so maybe one of those instruments jostled some of that, hence all that bleeding. When I finally spoke to my doctor she seemed unconcerned (easy for her!) and said some people just experience it like I did.

But yes, the results are the important part and the waiting is so hard. Thanks for your kind thoughts and for telling me your experience. Hope that all went well with the D & C you had.

Thanks again,Sparks

I had an endometrial biopsy yesterday.  I am still quite ill today.  I had more pain with this procedure than I have ever had in my life...and I've had two children, two elective abortions, 14 eye surgeries, an extensive breast biopsy, esophageal biopsy, lung biopsy, bilateral skin biopsies from my legs, sinus surgery and biopsy, and 14 periocular injections of corticosteroids.

I was left in the examining room immediately after the procedure with only my untrained (but sympathetic) husband who had not one clue how to help me.  I was experiencing vasovagal reaction including massive cold sweats, horrible nausea, overpowering dizziness, and near blackout.  I had a large amount of blood on me half way down my inner thighs, and I began to pass large clots almost immediately upon sitting up.  I was not given anything to clean myself up with.  I cried and cried.

I am a health care provider (although presently disabled.)  I used to work in a women's health clinic.  I looked for the familiar "poppers" that I always kept taped to the back of my ID tag.  There were none to be seen.  There were no familiar airways taped to the wall.  If they had a crash cart, they kept it well hidden.

I am outraged by what happened to me.  But...I won't be able to do anything about that today.  I am just too sick to sit up that long.  :-(

Welcome to Power Surge Beth,      I'm sorry you had such a bad experience with your endometrial biopsy.   Sorry I'm not familiar with "airways" or "poppers".   I am however concerned that you would be left alone and not checked on.   Whoever performed your procedure should be reported because it does not appear within the range of how an endometrial biopsy should be performed and the follow-up.   Even with minimal reaction to my biopsy, the GYN and nurse both stayed in the room a few minutes while they  had me slowly sit up for a few minutes before allowing me to get up and get dressed.    Were you even given any after care instructions?   I got a sheet of info about an endometrial biopsy and written instructions of what circumstances to call the dr about.   I am glad your husband was with you even if he could only  be sympathetic.   Most women probably have the procedure alone just as they do their annual exams.  I didn't feel the need to have my husband with me like I did for the uterine ultrasounds.   Hope you feel better soon.  Take care!   ~Helen

Helen,

"Airways" are little plastic contraptions that keep your tongue out of the way if you are passed out.  They are useful only for people who are still breathing on their own.  There are other kinds of "airways" for folks who can't breathe on their own, but those are usually on the crash cart.

"Poppers" are little glass cases of ammonia gas that come wrapped in a sort of coarse fabric so that you can break them open without cutting yourself.  They are useful for awakening people who have passed out.  Some people commonly call them "smelling salts".

I did not receive *any* patient education materials/instructions either before or after the procedure.  I commented on that to my husband yesterday.  I can look it up on the Internet...and indeed *have* looked it up, but that is no substitute for my physician's instructions.

I am bitterly disappointed with this doctor.

I am having pain on urination.  It mostly feels like a burning sensation.  If this increases or doesn't seem to be getting better in a few days, I will call them back and ask for instructions/help.  I have no confidence in them at this point however...and know that no one else will help me with this problem since it is a sequelae of the procedure performed by that doctor.  I am really scared.

As sore as I am, I will be *very* hesitant to consent to any further procedures at that facility...including ultrasound.  I am very familiar with the low abdomional/pelvic ultrasound, but am unclear as to whether this would be the type done in follow-up for a questionable endometrial biopsy.

Do you know?  I know I should go look it up, but I just don't feel well at all today.

Thanks for responding,

Beth,       You have every right to be upset.   Any medical procedure could cause the shock type reactions, but the nurse or dr should have been there to observe you for a few minutes at least.   Some women do have spotting to period like bleeding after the biopsy.  Give the office a call tomorrow and ask them to prescribe something for the burning urination.   You shouldn't have to suffer with that on top of everything you went through whether it is an irritation or an infection.   I was seeing a new GYN so he had me have all the tests since I was 51 when I saw him last fall.   I got my results in about 1 week on the biopsy with my pap results; the ultrasounds and mammograms were done separately but all my results were in within a few weeks.   You have the right to change drs especially considering how afraid this one has made you.   When you are up to it, you can get advice on this site under the ask the medical experts or  the board you feel best fits what you want to know.  Power Surge is  lucky to have a wealth of experts to ask questions, advice, recommendations, transcripts from guests on several topics, plus 10 years of Dearest's hard work compiling info.   You'll find answers right here. Thanks for adding a couple of terms to my vocabulary.   Good luck and take care of yourself!      ~Helen

Hi everyone. I've just been looking through the entire power surge site for info on getting an endometrial biopsy, since I have to have on on Nov. 11 due to continuous spotting. After reading your posts, now I'm scared to death! How long does the test last? How terrible is it? I wasn't planning on bringing anyone with me, but now I'm not so sure. When I asked my Doctor how bad it is, all she said with a little smirk was, "you better take a double dose of Motrin before you come in"....so I knew it wasn't going to be fun!

jhall1, I've had the biopsy three times (two of them many years ago). The most recent one I had was absolutely nothing. It did not hurt. A little bit of cramping, that was it. It took just minutes, but it wouldn't have mattered to me if it had taken much longer. My doctor said the reason I'd had pain with the old ones is because of the hard tool they used to use.

I had my first endometrial biopsy yesterday. Not because I'd been bleeding - I haven't had a period in four years - but because endometrial cells had shown up in my Pap smear and my gyn wanted to find out why. I was given a Valium and a Tylenol w/codeine to take one hour before the procedure. Which I did - and the combination made me a pretty funny lady. The actual procedure was only slightly painful - doctor used lidocaine on my cervix. As the minutes passed, she said I had a 'stubborn cervix.' (I figured any 54 year old woman who hadn't ever given birth probably has that same condition, and my sister has the same problem.) Anyway, mild cramping and light spotting followed the procedure. I didn't even need an Advil. My advice to those facing the procedure is to worry, scare yourself, convince yourself it'll be awful, then be wonderfully relieved that you worried and stressed for nothing! This approach works quite well in all aspects of my life.

Sparks, I have had 3 endometrial biopsies in the late 80's and early 90's due to flooding periods after my second son was born in 88. I later developed endometriosis. I have often heard that these biopsies are not as painful as they were back then but in my case it was very painful and caused even more bleeding. After the first one, I was standing in the lobby talking to my doctor and noticed he was staring at my tennis shoes; they were covered in blood and clots !!. I slept on the bathroom floor that night because I was bleeding too much to sleep in my own bed. Was right back at his office the next morning and was given medication to stop the bleeding. After that, I had him medicate me before I had the other biopsies. I would rather have had a child then to have had this procedure ever again .

Talk about frustrating! Dr. says biopsy results didn't show presence of endometrial cells that Pap smear did. She wanted to do an ultrasound, but ruled that out because I'm using HRT. So I'm to have another biopsy, after using estrogen cream vaginally for a month, in the hopes my cervix will become more flexible and she'll be able to get a better uterine sample. I just love being a girl sometimes.

Aw, Eugene, how disappointing. So sorry you have to go through this again. Hang in, dear meno-sister...

Thanks for the kind words Jolie. Another storm to ride out, I guess. I really like your quote about sky and sun and storms....

Hi all. I'm 45 and for the first time ever had a pap come back with endometrial cells. Am scheduled for a hysteroscopy on July 30. From reading the posts, it sound pretty common. Is it? Just in the past year, I have gained weight (heavier than I have ever been), and it's all in my waist, hips and tushie. And my stomach just will not go down. Should I be OVERLY concerned about the endo cells, or just moderately concerned. Thanks.

Hi Liz, Interesting, isn't it, that we both had endometrial cells in our Pap smears, yet our doctors are taking two very different approaches. I had the biopsy, you're having the hysteroscopy. I wonder why the difference? Anyone have any wisdom?

Sharing more about my endo biopsy saga, in hopes my post will provide information to others who might need to have the procedure. My doctor has decided to attempt another biopsy, using a medication four hours in advance of the procedure. She will vaginally insert a tablet (pill) of Cytotec (misoprostol) for the purpose of 'ripening' my previously impenetrable cervix. Apparently this med has been used successfully for hysteroscopies. I'm looking forward to getting this thing over with. She's looking forward to solving the riddle of why endometrial cells showed up on the cervix of a postmenopausal woman who hasn't had a period in four years. Will having used bioidentical HRT figure in the answer? We shall see...

Hi All, I am new to these boards and just came across this thread. Just wanted to share my story about my endometrial biopsy which ultimately saved my life. I am 47 and was having irregular periods for a few years. This past Fall I developed an intermenstrual watery pink discharge. Initially did not think much of it but scheduled a Gyn appt for further evaluation. During the appt which was with a new doctor, he too was not too concerned with this discharge, but in further discussing the situation, and the fact that my Mom is a uterine cancer survivor, I had the biopsy done then and there which although a fairly quick procedure hurt like the dickens!! As fate would have it my biopsy came back a week later positive for endometrial cancer. One 1/2/04 I had a TAH/BSO and by the Grace of God my cancer was at a very early stage requiring no chemo or radiation. Sharing my story in hopes that if someone here reads this that has similar symptoms, to please see your doctor, have the biopsy if it is indicated, since this may save your life as it did mine

Just to update - had second endo biopsy last week. Not the most pleasant experience, but the results were great. Nothing amiss in my uterus! The mystery remains however - how does a woman who hasn't had a period in 4 years end up with endo cells on her Pap smear??

which was about 8 yrs ago i remember having some cramps and i did spot off and on about a week but i do know that when u get up and walk it helps ease the pain and it was painful. i thought i was pregnant but they said no and found out i had utern cancer. so they took it. if this happens to anyone don't let it make u think ur less of a women cause i did i think that was the worst part of it all. hey can anyone help me get to something that will tell me how far into this i could be cause i'm really ready 4 this to go away. i am use to being independent but now i feel dependent , thanks if u could help

Had my hysteroscopy last Friday afternoon. It hurt. I cried. Now just waiting on pins and needles for the results. Liz

After everything I read about the pain involved, I was worried about having an endometrial biopsy. It was done because normal endometrial cells showed up on my otherwise normal Pap, which was done on day 5 of my cycle when I still had my period. I was hesitant to go forward with the biopsy because endometrial cells are generally not associated with pathology unless they are shed out of phase or postmenopausal, and I don't fit any of the other criteria for endometrial cancer either (overweight, irregular or profuse bleeding, etc. - none of that). Since I'm a worrier by nature, though, and have a family history of other cancers, I went ahead. On the table, I was waiting for the excruciating pain, only to find out that it was over in less than a minute. I've had pap smears that felt about the same. I felt 2 pinches (about 1 second each, about a 3 on a pain-scale of 0-10, with 10 being transitional labor), and some very mild cramping (about a 2). I got up immediately afterwards, no cramps and so far no bleeding since then, either (4 hours later.). I walked out of the office and had a very nice lunch with my girlfriend afterwards...So, if you're premenopausal ( At 48, I'm still very regular, give or take a day), have given birth vaginally, and have no other symptoms, this procedure is no less painful than getting your teeth cleaned. Really. Just felt that those of you still petrified need to hear a positive experience, too ( I guess not too many people write in about those...) For me, the painful part is right now...waiting for the results...

I just had an endometrial biopsy today and although I don't want to upset anyone, I wanted to share my experience. This was the worst pain I have felt. I have had three children and this procedure was worse than labor. The only thing was the biopsy was much shorter in duration. I went in feeling nervous, but as most things I figured it would be a lot less of a big deal than I thought it would be. WRONG!! It felt like the doctor was pulling out one of my ovaries. This was not mild cramping and some discomfort like they prepared me for. I almost came off the table and went through the ceiling. I actually cried out in pain and kept asking (begging) the doctor if he was done. Aside from the pain, the gynocologist was absolutely horrible. He told me I was being a baby. Even went so far as to say, "You're a big baby." In all, he insulted me 3 times and not once did he reassure me or walk me through the procedure. Even after he didn't even ask me if I was okay. Do you know how hard it is to describe him without using profanity? By the time it was over, I was so upset and traumatized I was in tears. I couldn't even think straight. I would not even look at the doctor afterward when he spoke to me. He was horrible. I am seriously considering sueing him. It isn't his fault it hurt. At least I don't think it was. It was his fault that I had such a traumatic experience. I have never thought of sueing anyone before. This is how bad he was. It has been 5 hours since the procedure and I am still upset. I still have cramps although mild and the bleeding is very light. My roughest recovery is emotional. Wow. I'll die before I go through that again without anesthetic. I don't know if maybe I have too many nerve endings in my uterus or maybe I am hypersensitive to pain or what. All I know is I hope to God you have a much better experience than I did. Now I await the results. Biopsy was for post-menopausal bleeding.

Dear Mattia-
Please let me know what kind of med they used for your endo biopsy. Just had one and in the event I should need another one I definitely want meds. this was the most pain I have ever felt and I have had 3 kids. Thanks

Oh I totally agree with you. People have told me that the endo biopsy is NO big thing....well, it was for me!!! I have had two children and my labor pains were NO where near to what I experienced. I was not given any anesthetic. I was post when I had mine done and it was because of a false-positive pap. I waited for two weeks to get my results and finally called the doctor's office. Turned out my results were sitting on a technician's desk and the nurse had to call the lab. I sat there with tears running off of my face until I heard that my results were normal. I will never ever, ever, again, have an endo biopsy unless they give me anesthetic.

My dear'ok2bkat'
Am so sorry for what you have been through.This Doctor sounds barbaric.At the very least they could have talked you through the procedure and offered a mild sedative.I bet he could not last more than five minutes with his insides being practically torn out.

Have just had a biopsy done on my Cervix but to be fair the Doctor was gentle although he scared me by keep mentioning Cancer before the smear was even sent to Pathology.Anyway the Pathologist called me personally by phone,very considerate,and told me it was benign but they would have to cut out the area.

I do hope your results are ok.Please let us know
And if you do not mind my saying I think you should find a new Gyno.The ones who treat us women so flippantly should be struck off.

Warm Hugs
Elizabeth

ok2bkat,
Sorry you had such a hard time. Some doctors just aren't any good. I'm glad the one I had been going to didn't do the endo biopsy on me. He was so rough and unsympathetic. The new doctor was quite gentle and his nurse is really nice. I had the biopsy done a couple days ago. It was painful, but didn't last very long. I still have mild cramps and a little bit of blood. The doctor didn't say what to expect, just to watch for signs of infection. He made me stay lying down for a bit and checked my pulse a couple times before letting me sit up.

I had a biopsy on Monday. Not too bad. Some mild cramping and pinching, but that was it. I had taken 4 ibuprofen about an hour before. The night before, my doc had me take an oral pill to soften the cervix (cytotec). Of course they didn't tell me the pill can also cause cramping and spotting, which it did for me. Had I known, at least I would have been prepared. It has been 2 days since the biopsy and I am still spotting, but no cramps after the first couple of hours. I, too, have a fibroid and I'm sure that's part of the reason I'm still spotting. Now, to wait for the results. Doc said tissue looked good, but microscopic review is the final answer.

Reason for biopsy - I was supposedly post-menopausal and my endo lining was 3mm in mid-March, but I had a regular period in mid-April with tender breasts, cramps, etc., etc. (after 15 months of no periods!). I am amazed at how common this is, in reading what others have gone through. While still bleeding, another ultrasound showed the lining had increased to 10mm. After the period, I was spotting for 3 weeks, but it finally stopped about 5 days before the biopsy. Doc thinks I had an increase in estrogen for some reason, which caused the lining to build up and made the fibroid grow a bit too, hence the spotting problems. Tech who did the second ultra showed me where the fibroid is pushing against the uterine lining and she said it would cause bleeding/spotting problems. Another recent blood test shows my estrogen has returned to low level again, which I knew because the cramping and breast tenderness are gone. I swear, menopause is like riding a roller coaster!! If biopsy results are ok, doc doesn't want to do anything right now. He feels menopause (with the drop in hormones) will ultimately take care of the fibroid. We'll see (ha-ha).

Glad your biopsy went so well. I had a cervical biopsy done over 10 years ago and the doctor was terrible. Said it wouldn't hurt and only be a few "pinches". Well, I still beg to differ! Anyway, fired him and moved on to other gyn's. Last year was faced with another biopsy but was still traumatized by past experience. Spoke to both of my new gyns and guess what? They NEVER do one without injecting Lidocaine into the cervix!!! And, when I went in for the procedure he looked again, using a special solution on the cervix and with high powered magnification. Guess what? He felt pathology department was only covering there a***s for a few minor cell changes. And, he would not put a patient through a biopsy needlessly. However, he and my other gyn (from a diff practice) both agreed and suggested I have Pap smear every 6 months for 1 to 1 1/2 years. Just had my 3rd one and all is clear.

Not saying your doc did the wrong thing. Just showing how they are all so very different in treatment plans AND we have a right to humane, compassionate treatment. Best Wishes to your continued good health. JZZ

Hello everyone. I have to say that when I went in for my biopsy I wasn't apprehensive. I was told that there would be "cramping". Since I had cryosurgery about 20 yrs before and was told the same thing, I thought there wasnt much to worry about. I have to say that this was the most horrific experience I have ever gone through!! I was not told what the procedure entailed nor was I told to take any sort of OTC meds prior. The doctor was cold and mechanical and actually had a student come in and perform some of the procedure without asking permission first. When the doctor saw that I was having difficultly he said to me "and you had two children?". So, did he think I was overreacting? !!!

The nurse was not consoling either. At least she could have offered to hold my hand. When they were through with me I just sobbed. I too was not given anything to clean up with despite the fact that when I finally was able to get myself off the table (with no help from anyone) there was iodine running down the table and on myself. I ruined a completely good set of panties. I too couldnt even look at the doctor when I bumped to him in the hall. My legs almost buckled beneath me as I checked out. I sobbed all the way home which is a half hour away and I sobbed when I got there. I felt so violated. Driving home I realized what it felt like to be raped, because thats exactly how I felt. Like the lady a couple of messages above, I believe the emotional part was every bit as tramatizing as the procedure itself. And to think that the United States is concerned about the torture of our enemies at Gitmo and yet women in America go through this procedure every day with no kind of anesthetic whatsoever! I felt like performing surgery on that doctor myself without anesthia and see how HE liked it.

I go for my test results today and Im concerned.

KateinTN, I am sorry you had such a bad experience! I can't believe you were treated this way by your doctor. Very unacceptable! After all this is over I probably would find another doctor. Anyway, I hope and pray you will get good news today. I will keep you in my prayers.

Kate: Your doctor should have stopped the procedure when it became obvious you were having a lot of discomfort. They could have just offered you an ultrasound to check on your lining instead, and then based on that decide whether further exploration of the endo lining is needed. Perhaps you could write a letter to the doctor or the practice explaining in a measured way what you went through, and what you think would have made the experience tolerable (more information about what is entailed, advice about taking a painkiller ahead of time, etc.). The biopsy is a really important test and saves many lives. In most cases, it doesn't cause much pain. Your doctor had no sensitivity, and that was wrong, but s/he didn't intentionally want to hurt you. It may be that if you communicate with the practice and articulate your grievances clearly and calmly, they would do something to improve their mode of delivery.

I thank you all for your responses. I am happy to report that my biopsy was negative for the "C" word. The doctor believes that the reason for my post menopausal bleeding is an infection and I am on a strong antibiotic for the next 14 days. I was originally sent to this particular doctor from the Health Dept because I dont have insurance. It is a teaching facility and I suppose no insurance means less TLC. I most likely did not have an ultrasound because of the cost involved.

In fairness to the doctor, when I went back his demeanor had changed quite a bit. Before he even told me my results, I sat down with him and said, "now I am giving you some feedback and want you to know for future reference how tramatizing my experience was " and proceeded to describe to him what I described in my post. As far as the pain, he said that every woman is different and with some they say afterwards "and that is it?" and others he said have quite a bit of pain as myself. I also told him that the emotional response was every bit as tramatic as the physical.

I dont think he reazlied that no one had recommended prior for me to take Ibprophen. I really think there is a lack of communication there as he inquired of me why I had been there for a previous appointment. The first time I went there I was fully anticipating having the biopsy on that day as that is what I had been told by the Health Dept. But the gal that interviewed me said she was capable of doing the biopsy but preferred that another dr do it because he was more experienced. I had sat in the waiting room 1-1/2 hours and 1/2 hour in the back just to have her tell me this ! The doctor that actually performed the biopsy is, in fact, the one she recommended. When I said that he smiled and said he wished she had performed it so that I would now be mad at her instead of him.

Anyway, he told me next time I should take 800 mg of IBU beforehand. When he said "next time" he wasnt looking me in the eye, and I keep looking at him quietly until he looked up and saw that I was having no part of a "next time". He also said that no women is ever given any kind of "knock out" drug or anesthia prior as its not recommended by the AMA. When three students walked in, he told them that I had said he had hurt me. By the time our visit was through I think we both had a better understanding of each other and I felt vindicated. Point to all who have not yet gone through this......make certain you have a full understanding of the procedure and ask about medicating beforehand, although in my case I dont believe the medication would have been much help. If you have insurance, make it easy on yourself and ask whether you will be having ultrasound.

Kate: I'm so happy to hear that you communicated your feelings about the biopsy to your doctor. That's great! And it sounds like he even listened. I'll bet there will be a memo about at least telling women to take ibuprofen before showing up for the biopsy.

Just thought I would mention that the ultrasound is not a substitute for a biopsy. It will tell them if you have a thickened endo, in which case it becomes all the more critical for them to get a sample, usually by doing a d&c, which is a surgical procedure with anesthesia that puts you out for the fifteen or so minutes it takes to be done. I have never had children, and in my case my cervix was so uncooperative that the doctor gave up after four or five attempts at the endo biopsy. She sent me for the ultrasound, and told me right then and there that she was not going to try another endo biopsy on me, and that if the ultrasound showed up with thickening I would have to have a d&c, which is indeed what happened. I was having a major bleeding problem at the time, so I was up for anything, and even though the d&c was way more invasive than an endo biopsy, it really seemed to correct the problem I was having (even though it's supposed to be diagnostic and not a treatment). I think your doctor's statement that it's not recommended to give painkillers besides ibu for an endo biopsy is accurate. My doctor did not offer as an option another endo with some sort of anesthetic in the event the ultrasound showed thickening. It was either the biopsy with ibu in the office or d&c with full anesthesia in an o.r. And she specifically said I'm not trying a biopsy again if we need followup. It would have been ok with me if she wanted to try again afterward, but she was definitely against it. lol

I hope in the future if you need a biopsy you will not hesitate because of this experience. I have a number of friends who have had them and felt only the pin-pricking sensation -- in fact, that's been the experience of every single one of them except me. It may even depend on where you are in your cycle and what state your body is in at any given time. Maybe the fact that you had an infection affected the rigidity of your cervix -- I don't know. But it could be that if you ever had this procedure again, it would unfold without a hitch.

It's great that you have no cancer worries now. I would think the peace of mind is definitely worth a bit of pain in the short run. Hopefully the antibiotics will clear up the weird bleeding. Have a great weekend.

Hello everyone!

I found this post by searching internet. I was having intermenstrual bleeding for the past 5 months. I am 30 y.o. and was puzzled about it. I have never ever had any problems! My periods were always regular. My OBGYN suggested doing a biopsy, but never warned me about discomfort or pain. I was never given any pain meds or lidocaine for cervix. I would say it was a bit painful; a few pinches and cramps. Nurse was good staying with me and holding my arm. But no one helped me to get up and get down from the table, i thought it was unprofessional for OBGYN office . My Doc said he could not perform biopsy well since he had a problem with my cervix and recommended to do a hysteroscopy. I am waiting for results next week. I do still have a very mild bright blood bleeding (2 days). I don't know if this is normal??

I was reading other ladies bad experiences and desire to sue their Doc's for moral trauma. I understand your feelings and agree that you have to do something about it. But I don't think it's realistic to find any attorney who whould be willing to sue MD for that. It's very expensive to hire a lawyer. The best you can do is simply file a complain with a State Medical Board or with Ethics commission if they excist in your state.
GL
take care

Really? Are you serious? Wow. Just the sort of frivolous lawsuit that causes our medical costs to skyrocket and doctors to want to throw in the towel and close their doors.

I can't believe women want to sue doctors for this kind of problems, I had endometrial bipsy done in a jiff, i did not even take the pill for cervix, and there were no nurse to hold my hand, just the doctor, who did it in 10 seconds.
There was cramping and some spotting after, but I was warned and it was bearable.
Perhaps, because I had 2 natural births, I have high tolerance to pain.
But still to sue doctors for this matter, is a bit overboard. No wonder the cost of medical care and doctors visits are rising, the liability insurance goes also up because of the lawsuites. Good thing, in most countries, ppl have no luxury to sue physicians for not helping them off the table post endometrial biopsy or holding their hands.
I have seen all kind of doctors, with good bedside manners and not so much, but I never thought of sueing them, if I don;t like the doctor, I just find another one.

Agreed. A law suit would undoubtedly be more painful for everyone, including the plaintiff - no future in it. BUT more to the point, I had an endometrial biopsy yesterday afternoon. Lucky me I have a bicornate uterus with 2 entirely separate endometrial canals so I got to have two biopsies, one right after the other. Puts me in a unique position because they were performed only moments apart but the experience between the two was like night and day. I was given what appears standard instructions - take ibuprofen an hour before (I took 600 mg), expect maybe some cramping. A very attentive and gentle male obgyn - also had a med student sit in for it (bicornate uterus - it's like doctor show and tell, I'm used to it). Anyway, I drove myself and went alone - a mistake. I also have PCOS and my left side is usually the problem one, full of benign cysts. So he begins with the left side. He used no anesthesia. When he inserted the catheter and suctioned out the sample, I experienced a completely unexpected level of EXTREME pain, almost got sick, screamed, and then, didn't know what else, started relaxation breathing techniques. I've had a dozen surgeries, many major ones, 1 natural birth AND 2 c-sections, and other ongoing medical issues, all painful of course, always worked right through it all - I take pain well, so much that my cancer RN/case worker told me to always intepret "how much pain" as "how much discomfort" before I answer because I always deny being in any pain but discomfort I'll admit to. But this pain floored me. After he withdrew the instruments from that side (I could feel that) the pain did NOT subside at all. It went from my left shoulder down to my left knee and I wanted to hit someone (didn't). Then he moves to the right side. A little pressure, a little cramp and a pinch, and that one was done. I suspect that's what most people feel. But I was still reeling from the pain on the left side which still hadn't let up. I had to stay on the table for several minutes before I could find the strength to get up and get dressed. Then drove home - every time I had to move my leg or turn my head to make a lane change the pains shot up my left side again, got dizzy, felt nauseous. Then at home begins the BURNING pain from my rib cage down to my knee (just on the left side), more nausea, even my Cabernet tasted bad (!), and then the spotting starts and my abdomen gets all distended, and just when I and hubby are thinking ER time, I found this blog. What a relief--and thank you. So I joined up just so I could share this. I continued to have the burning cramps through the left side of my abdomen all day today, it's still there - driving was the worst, but I had to go to work because I DIDN'T KNOW to schedule another day off. It appears to me after more research that there are many variables - shape and tilt of the uterus, other malfunctions of the uterus (fribroids, cysts), age? (I'm 50 but not yet menopausal at all), aggressiveness of the doctor perhaps (the suction is controlled manually in the type of instrument used on me, though there are other types), maybe where you are in your cycle. It would seem to explain the huge variation in degrees of "discomfort" that different women feel. Like most female medical issues it seems the problem is this over-generalization. Maybe 70-80% (or more) of women have this procedure and really feel only mild discomfort and some mild cramping and spotting - like it felt on my right uterus. But I feel like we should all also be forewarned that SOMETIMES it's different. I should not have driven myself home yesterday; I should have been told to bring someone with me - even if usually it's not necessary, for me it was and I didn't know or I wouldn't have taken that risk. I should have known that sometimes the after affects are much worse, but it doesn't mean you're gonna kick over. I nearly wasted more prescious resources by running to the ER for what should have been a known possible reaction to the procedure - but I DIDN'T KNOW because nobody told me. And I read the same, tired information about this procedure on 2 dozen web pages before I went in yesterday - all inadequate. INFORMATION is power, it gives us control, gives us assurance and eliminates unnecessary risk, fear and overreaction. We all need to stand up and be heard, don't blindly accept the answers you get, do your own research, make your doctor listen to you, and if s/he doesn't listen, find another doctor. It's not about law suits or money, it's about your life. I would go through this experience again to save my life. I hope the results are negative but if they're positive, at least I'll know and I can fight it. If the procedure has been recommended for you, have it done - without fear and with the knowledge of what to expect, MAYBE. I beat breast cancer because of early detection, a very freaking painful mammogram and an alert radiologist. You can't run from the hard stuff and expect to survive, but it would definitely help if the doctors would just tell us what we need to know - and listen to us. Be strong and have faith in your instincts. You don't need a college degree to know something is wrong. Make them listen. Get answers. Sorry I'm so long-winded. It seemed important. YOU seemed important.

Welcome to this site and Wow..thanks for sharing your story! I'm sure a lot of ladies will benefit from it. I have to agree knowledge is power and so is experience. That is why this site is so great lots of knowledge, experience, comfort and whining is welcome when needed.

Hope your biopsy turns out OK. Keep us posted.
Robin

Hi all.
I am searching because I was obviously not given the info that we all should have been about these biopsies. My Lic. NP did the procedure. I was given meds to soften lining of uterus but not told about the cramping and bleeding. I was having this done because at 47 my periods became heavier, longer and I was passing very large clots. Just the week prior I was hemorrhaging and passing so many clots I was afraid I was bleeding to death. (Nurse told me she has seen this happen.) You need to know she is a very caring person and asked continually during the procedure if I was doing OK. She told me everything I would feel at the time of procedure...but forgot the after.

I did have an ultrasound finding very small fibroids and they removed one polyp. Then the biopsy was done, scraping twice to be sure to get enough sample because I was bleeding from removing the polyp.

Well, with my online research turns out they can pierce the uterus doing the biopsy. A lot of places go over things extensively with a consent form to be signed. Not me. I should have taken Advil, but am taking it now. Have had an on and off light spotting ever since with cramping. It has been 6 days.

I went to this alone, but thankfully my husband came to the office while I was in between ultrasound and biopsy. What a husband!!!!

I also had a horribly painful endometrial biopsy yesterday. It was my second one, the first was a few years ago and it was very painful, but this was a LOT worse. I will say it was equal to the pain of fracturing my pelvis and equal to the pain of childbirth. Yes, it was only that bad for a few minutes, but it was way worse than I expected, and I was expecting it to hurt. The first one a few years ago seemed like it was just a few snips, but this one was like an egg-beater made of knives. I WILL NEVER let this procedure be done to me without serious pain-control. Years ago, after my first endometrial biopsy, I researched online and found an article that said that women who had given birth to more children are more likely to have bad pain from this procedure... but I can't find it now. (wish I could, would print it out and give it to my doctors). I have found one reference that says that older women are more likely to find it painful. I am 50 and have had seven natural childbirths, and the only reason I had to get this second endometrial biopsy was because I had bleeding after being in menopause for about 4-5 years... but I think the bleeding was likely to have been caused by a lumbar steroid epidural that I had a few weeks before I started bleeding, but the GYN said that the biopsy is crucial for any case of post-menopausal bleeding even if I think I know what caused it.

All I can say is that even if it only causes cramps in some people, the endometrial biopsy caused mind-blowing severe pain in my case. The pain subsided to an ache within a minute or two after it was over, but I feel like it was a terrible trauma and I just feel like crying even remembering it. If there ever has to be a next time, I want something that will make me forget the whole thing. I want so much to completely forget this forever, but it still hurts some, which keeps reminding me... I want it to stop hurting entirely so I can forget it. ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhh

I just had an endometrial biopsy yesterday. I received little instruction from my gyn before the procedure other than it would be really painful, but quick. There was no premedication or local anesthetic provided. I have a high tolerance for pain, but it was incredibly painful for me. Unfortunately, I was given no after-care instructions or told what to expect following the procedure. The gyn and nurse left the room immediately and sent me on my way. Unfortunately, I had a vasovagal reaction and passed out on the floor of the elevator on the way out of the building. I am still having heavy cramping almost a day later. I am a medical professional (not in women's health) and I can tell you that the way women are often treated by gynecologists is unacceptable. Other medical disciplines do not treat patients so poorly. We should be treated with dignity and respect, provided appropriate and responsible care and be properly informed about things that are done to our bodies, including side effects such as pain. Anything less is poor medical practice. The sad thing is, I have had several gynecologists over the years and I have not thought any of them were worthy of their profession. I hope this improves with the next generation of physicians.

I ditto everything that My Home said. My one and only EB was excruciatingly painful. I will never have it done again without pain management.

CG

Oh my goodness I have just come across this long running thread and I am glad I am not a newbie looking for reassurance!
I myself had an endometrial biopsy to diagnose my cancer and, honestly I hardly remember it. It was absolutely nothing! A bit of a sting and a cramp and it was over.
This thread is comparable to women relating their childbirth stories. Some women pop them out and others have a bad time so each experience is totally different.
I am really sorry for all you ladies who had such a dramatic painful time of it but I don't think it is the norm.
For any poor unfortunate who comes across this thread I would say-each experience is different. If the procedure is done properly it doesn't hurt very much at all and it is over so quickly-in seconds.
It is a valuable procedure which as in my case can save lives and isn't worth worrying about in advance too much.
Just my view for what it is worth.

janet c

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Hello!

I'm writing to share my experience with an endometrial biopsy I had performed this morning! When my doctor first told me about needing to have this biopsy, I immediately searched online to find others who have gone through it so that I could hear how it would make me feel as I am EXTREMELY phobic of doctors!

Was HORRIFIED reading a lot of posts on this site that many women had bad experiences!

So I wanted to write with my experience - it was NOTHING ... I repeat NOTHING ... there was ZERO pain ... ZERO pressure ... NOTHING. It was exactly the same as having a pap smear done for me!!!

To anyone out there who also read about others' unfortunate experiences, I just wanted to relieve your worries and concerns a little to let you know that I am the type who faints getting blood taken ... and this endometrial biopsy was NOTHING ... it was over in 30 seconds ... and it was just like a pap smear!

Also, I have large fibroids. During the internal ultrasound to find those, they found a polyp in my endometrium. That's why I need the biopsy. Results next week.

But to those of you who have heard bad experiences, here is one GREAT experience! NO PAIN AT ALL!!! Very minimal spotting for me afterwards, and ZERO CRAMPING AS WELL!!!

BEST OF LUCK TO ANYONE ELSE HAVING ONE DONE!!! Hoping you also have a painfree, cramp free biopsy!!!

I had an endometrial biopsy today - my second one. The first one was at 47 for spotting between periods. The one today was because I am menopausal (according to the blood tests) but still having pain and heavy periods every three months or so. I also have fibroid tumors. The first one I had was almost unbearable. I had no indication when I went in for the office visit that a biopsy was even going to take place. So, I did no pain management at all. I cramped and spotted for three days afterwards but the results showed no cancer. Today's procedure was 100% better. The doctor (a different one than before) prescriped Cytotec to take the night before and morning of the procedure. I was also told at the last visit to take up to 800 mg of Motrin. I think the biggest difference was the shots of lidocane I was given in the uterus. These shots were nothing more than a slight sting. After waiting about 5 minutes (the doctor was chatting away during this time), she began the procedure. It was so easy I actually asked her "you mean it's over already" when she removed the instruments. I could kick myself for worrying about this for the past two weeks and losing hours and hours of sleep. My advice is to make sure your doctor prescribes the Cytotec and gives you the injection to numb the uterus. Be sure to take some form of ibuprofen, too! So far, I've only had just a little bleeding and no pain. After reading the other posts last week, I'm so happy to have a positive story to tell! Good Luck to everyone contemplating this procedure.

So that is three of us in a row that found it to be nothing too worry about.
I am glad of that because it is not nice to come across all those other stories when you are looking for reassurance.
Good luck to anyone about to have a biopsy and don't worry. It is over in a trice!

janet c