If you are undergoing fertility tests to find out the root cause of your infertility, your doctor may suggest doing an endometrial biopsy as well as other tests. You might be wondering what to expect during an endometrial biopsy. Your doctor will check for any abnormalities in the tissues of the endometrium, which lines the uterus. As you and your physician look for answers and possible treatments for your infertility issues, an endometrial biopsy may be an essential way to see the overall health of your endometrium tissues.

The physicians and medical staff at Advanced Reproductive Center will take a look at your case and advise you on the right treatment plan. This plan may include a biopsy of endometrial tissue as well as other tests for fertility.

Causes of Endometrial Abnormalities

The endometrium is the tissue that lines the uterus. This tissue changes during the menstrual cycle to prepare for ovulation and the possibility of conception. If conception occurs, the embryo will place itself in the endometrium. Then, the endometrium will quickly grow to become the maternal placenta. If fertilization does not happen, the menstrual cycle will complete itself and end in a period where the endometrial tissue is shed. The body will then begin the process once again.

An endometrial biopsy can determine if abnormalities in the endometrium are the cause of infertility. Some of the causes of endometrial abnormalities include abnormal hormonal levels altering the thickness of the uterine lining as well as endometritis, an infection of the uterine lining. Overgrowth of the uterine lining or polyps on the uterine lining can also cause abnormalities that interfere with fertility.

What to Expect During an Endometrial Biopsy: Preparing for the Procedure

As you prepare for your biopsy procedure, you may have questions about how to best prepare for the procedure. You may also wonder what happens during an endometrial biopsy and afterward. Your physician can advise you on the details of your upcoming biopsy. In general, the biopsy procedure may include these steps:

• Your physician will take a full health history. They will also look at any other health conditions or medications that could affect your uterine health.
• Your physician will decide if the clinic should perform the biopsy or if a hospital should perform the biopsy. 
• The procedure itself may include using a local anesthetic to numb the cervix. This medication will reduce your pain and discomfort. It will also allow your physician to safely and effectively perform the procedure.
• Your physician will remove a small sample of endometrial tissue. The physician will then examine this for any abnormalities.
• You may experience a slight amount of bleeding post-procedure and minimal cramping.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Physicians can use an endometrial biopsy as a way to determine if an abnormal growth is present. If so, a treatment plan for endometrial cancer will be necessary. Physicians will also examine the endometrial tissue for signs of thickening or any growths due to endometriosis. Because endometriosis may cause ongoing infertility problems, your physician may set up a treatment plan. Your physician may also need to do more tests, such as hysteroscopy or laparoscopy. Laparoscopy uses dye to see if the endometriosis is blocking one or both fallopian tubes.

Living with infertility can be a challenging burden that weighs on your relationships. It can also mean you may not be able to have a successful pregnancy. There’s no need to suffer through infertility alone. At Advanced Reproductive Center, we understand your desire to conceive and carry a child to a healthy birth, and we stand ready to partner with you in your dream. Our goal is to provide you with the most advanced fertility care and treatments. If you still have questions about what to expect during an endometrial biopsy, call us today at 312.485.4847. Learn how our compassionate physicians and medical staff can help you build the family of your dreams.