QUESTION: I have been informed by my gynecologist that she feels a biopsy of my cervix is necessary, but has told me that she can perform this in her office.
Do you agree that this is OK and doesn't need a hospital?
ANSWER: A cervical biopsy, which is done to check the opening of the uterus for cancer and other conditions, can easily be done in your doctor's office. In some cases, treatment can also be done in the office and you can go home immediately afterward. If your situation is proceeding as most do, your doctor has already done a PAP smear, which is a quick screening for abnormal cells in the mucus around the cervix, and the results came back positive for abnormal cells.
She now wants to take a biopsy, a tiny piece of your cervix that is smaller than a nail clipping, in order to get a better idea of what is going on.
The tissue sample will be evaluated by your doctor and a pathologist. For the biopsy, you'll be in the usual exam position, with your feet in the stirrups.
Your doctor will wipe away the cervical mucus and may use a special viewing device, a colposcope, to take a close look at the vagina and cervix.
The biopsy will be taken from any spots on the cervix that look abnormal.
After you go home, if you notice any bleeding, call your doctor. If the biopsy shows there is no cancer and the area of abnormal cells is small, your doctor may treat you in the office using cryotherapy (or freezing technique).
You're in the same position as for the biopsy and your doctor uses a device to freeze and kill the abnormal spots.
Two days later, on a return visit, the site will be cleaned.
A thin watery discharge may last for about two weeks after the procedure, which usually disappears by itself.
The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace the counsel and advice of your personal physician.
Promptly consulting your doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical problem.
