Punch Biopsy of the Cervix /Susan Wood Jan 2012/review 2014
Punch Biopsy of the Cervix
What is a punch Biopsy?
This is a simple procedure usually performed in Colposcopy Clinic when abnormal changes are identified on the neck of the womb(Cervix).The Colposcopist removes a piece of skin from the surface of the cervix. The procedure usuallytakes 5 minutes to perform.
Is the procedurePainful?
The procedure may be uncomfortable initially, and may cause slight cramping abdominal pain (rather like a period type pain) or a stinging sensation that should wear of off after few minutes, but if not a mild painkiller may be taken to relieve any discomfort such as paracetamol.
Why has is to be performed?
During a Colposcopy examination, vinegar like solution (acetic acid) is applied to identify any abnormal cell changes. These areas show up white to enable the Colposcopist to take biopsies. These biopsies are then sent to the laboratories.
The laboratories then identify what grade the abnormalities are, to determine the follow uptreatment.
Alternative treatments
Taking biopsies is the only diagnostic procedure to perform to identify any abnormal changes.
Advice after the procedure
Following this procedure some womenmay experience a slight watery brown vaginal loss or red spotting for up to 7- 10 days (not everyone has this discharge), there should be no heavy bleeding, but if your period is due at the same time it may be thicker than normal.
It is recommended that panty liners should be used rather than tampons as this can prevent infection. We also adviseyou to avoidsexual intercourse for 7 days or until the discharge subsides.
We also recommend that you do not return to work the rest of the day and avoid any heavy lifting.
Risks of procedure
There are no significant risks or side effects but you may have some spotting after the procedure as previously discussed.
Heavy bleeding is very rare but if this happens please contact the Colposcopy clinic or ward 14 if out of working hours, as you may need further treatment.
In some instances some women may have an offensive discharge associated with lower abdominal pain and slight fever, this could mean you may have an infection and may need some antibiotics; you can contact your own GP, the Colposcopy unit or out of hours ward 14 for advice.
Results
You should receive your results within 4 weeks and will be discussed at your next appointment.
Any problems or enquiries please contact the Nurse Colposcopist
Contact Numbers
Colposcopy Clinic 01226 432213or 01226 432217 in working hours or
Ward 14 Telephone 01226 432261
Susan Wood January 2012.
1