In modern gynecology, there are many diagnostic methods that can detect pathologies at early stages. One of the most informative procedures is cervical biopsy - microsurgery, which helps to accurately assess the condition of the cells and tissues of the organ. Thanks to this method, it is possible to examine the slightest changes that cannot be seen during a regular examination or colposcopy.
A biopsy is prescribed if there are signs or test results that indicate a suspected pathology. For women preparing for the programs IVFIt can also be an important step in checking the health of the cervix before starting stimulation. The procedure is not done "just for fun". There are clear indications when a biopsy is necessary:
Each indication is a reason to obtain a histological report that will influence further tactics.
Although the procedure is not a serious intervention and is safe, there are situations when a cervical biopsy it is better to postpone. There are absolute and relative contraindications:
For each patient, the doctor assesses the risk and makes a decision on the procedure.
Modern gynecology offers several methods of sampling, each of which has its own advantages and indications. The choice depends on the localization of suspicious changes, their depth, the results of cytology, colposcopy, and the patient's general condition.
The most common type of biopsy. It is performed under the visual control of a colposcope - a special magnifying device. The doctor identifies a suspicious area and takes a small piece of tissue from it using forceps or another instrument.
Targeted cervical biopsy is prescribed in case of:
The procedure is characterized by minimal trauma, high sampling accuracy, and a short recovery time (usually a few days). However, if there is a suspicion that the process is spreading into the cervical canal or has a significant depth, other methods are required.
The procedure is prescribed when suspicious changes are observed not in the outer part of the cervix, but in its canal. Using a special instrument (curette), the doctor gently "scrapes" the surface cells from the walls of the cervical canal. The obtained material is sent for histological examination. Endocervical curettage helps to evaluate and detect the slightest changes in the epithelium inside the cervical canal, an area that is not directly visible during colposcopy. This is an indispensable method in case of endocervical pathology, when the transformation border is shifted inside the canal and is not available for targeted biopsy, as well as in case of questionable cytology results.
This is a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure during which a cone-shaped fragment of cervical tissue is surgically removed. The excised cone covers the entire suspicious area along with adjacent healthy areas and part of the cervical canal, which allows for the most accurate assessment of the spread of the pathological process.
During conization, the tissue can be removed with a scalpel (knife conization), a laser, or a radio wave method. The latter two options provide more precise control over the depth of excision and less blood loss. The resulting sample is then thoroughly examined histologically, which allows us to determine not only the nature of the lesion, but also the degree of dysplasia, the presence of preinvasive or microinvasive cancer, and the cleanliness of the resection margins.
The procedure is performed in case of severe cervical intraepithelial neoplasia, suspected microinvasive carcinoma, and when the results of colposcopy, cytology, or targeted biopsy are contradictory or insufficiently informative. Conization is both a diagnostic and treatment method, as removal of pathologically altered tissue may be sufficient to completely eliminate the dysplasia.
Despite its high information content, the procedure is more traumatic than a targeted biopsy. It can shorten the length of the cervix, which in some cases affects its function and increases the risk of obstetric complications in the future. However, if indicated, conization remains the optimal method for diagnosing and timely treating precancerous conditions.
A modern, minimally traumatic method that uses a device that generates high-frequency radio waves. Under their influence, the incision is made with a special radio wave electrode (radio knife), which provides precise and controlled excision of the pathologically altered area. Targeted removal of tissue occurs without significant heating, evaporation or charring, so the sample retains its structure and suitability for high-quality histological examination.
This method is characterized by minimal bleeding, as radio waves simultaneously coagulate small blood vessels, which reduces the risk of post-procedure complications. Due to the gentle effect and the absence of rough scarring radio wave biopsy of the cervix has a short recovery period and is well tolerated by patients. It is considered the best option for women planning a pregnancy in the future, as it has virtually no effect on the density and length of the cervix, while maintaining its functionality.
Proper preparation reduces the risk of complications and helps to obtain correct results. Before a biopsy, you need to:
Although the procedure may seem complicated, in practice it takes 5-20 minutes, and most women tolerate it comfortably. It does not require anesthesia or is performed with local anesthesia.
Knowing what a cervical biopsy is You can guess that after such an intervention, there may be slight bloody or watery discharge, mild discomfort in the lower abdomen, or mild pulling sensations, like during menstruation. This is all considered normal if it lasts no longer than a week.
Depending on the examination, diagnostic options are possible:
The accuracy of the conclusion depends on the quality of the sample taken and the correctness of its fixation. Therefore, it is better to undergo the procedure in reliable clinics with experienced specialists and modern equipment.
The duration of recovery depends on the scope of the intervention, the method, and the individual characteristics of the body. For example, in case of targeted or radio wave biopsy, it takes 3-10 days, while in case of conization, healing can last up to 6-8 weeks.
To speed up the rehabilitation period, you need to follow the doctor's recommendations:
Following these rules helps you recover faster and avoid complications.
Mostly cervical biopsy goes without complications, but like any intervention, the procedure can have risks. Below are the most common ones.
It can occur immediately or during the first days after the procedure. It is more common in women with blood clotting disorders, anemia, anticoagulants, or when a large tissue excision is performed. Usually, the bleeding is minor and stops on its own, but heavy discharge requires immediate examination by a doctor.
It develops rarely, usually in case of non-compliance with recommendations after a cervical biopsy. For example, in case of early return to sexual activity, visiting the swimming pool. Symptoms may include the appearance of an unpleasant odor of discharge or its visual changes (color, consistency), fever, pain in the lower abdomen. A timely visit to a specialist can quickly eliminate the infection.
In most women, the pain is moderate and lasts for a short time - from several hours to 1-2 days. It may resemble the sensations during menstruation. In case of hypersensitivity, short-term cramps are possible. If necessary, your doctor may recommend mild painkillers.
A watery or lightly bloody discharge for a few days is normal. However, prolonged, heavy, or heavy bleeding may indicate a superficial defect that heals more slowly or tissue irritation. It is also important to see a doctor if the discharge is disturbing and uncomfortable.
Shortening the length of the cervix, for example, in the case of conization, can potentially affect the gestation of future pregnancies - increasing the risk of miscarriages and premature birth.
This is a rare complication that occurs more often after more aggressive, deep biopsy methods. A pronounced scar can affect the elasticity of the cervix or its patency. However, modern technologies significantly reduce the likelihood of such consequences by providing delicate tissue excision.
Some women experience anxiety, tension, or insomnia before the procedure or while waiting for the result. It's important to get clear explanations from your doctor and not to panic - this will help reduce emotional stress and make the procedure easier.
To minimize the risks, you should entrust the procedure to an experienced specialist who is familiar with modern methods and their features.
Yes, the procedure is safe for women who do not yet have children. In such cases, targeted or radio wave biopsy is most often performed. The latter method is especially appreciated for its minimal risk of scarring, so it is most often recommended for young women planning a pregnancy in the future.
For the most part, no. Standard, minimally traumatic biopsy techniques do not affect fertility, as the structure of the cervix is not significantly disturbed. However, extensive excisional interventions can slightly change the length of the cervix and increase the risk of premature birth or miscarriage in the future. However, these situations are not really related to biopsy, but to treatment interventions. Doctors always choose a method based on the patient's reproductive plans.
The cost of the procedure depends on the method, clinic, and the need for additional tests. It is better to check the total price in a particular medical center, because often the cost of histology is calculated as a separate procedure. У At the fertility clinic in Kyiv "At IVMED, a cervical biopsy (histological examination, not excisional) costs UAH 1,240, and an excisional histological examination costs UAH 1,565.
The standard histological examination period is 5-14 days. However, in urgent cases, an accelerated examination can be performed, but this requires approval and additional payment.
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