What affects the test

Reasons you may not be able to have the endometrial biopsy or why the results may not be helpful include:

  • If you are pregnant. An endometrial biopsy is not done during pregnancy.
  • If a vaginal or cervical infection is present. The infection could spread to the uterus if an endometrial biopsy is done.
  • If the endometrial biopsy sample is not large enough to see abnormal cells. Another test may be needed.

What to think about

  • An endometrial biopsy is not done during pregnancy.
  • More of the uterine lining can be sampled during a dilation and curettage (D&C) than during an endometrial biopsy. Another test, called a hysteroscopy, is usually done with a D&C so that your doctor can see the lining of your uterus. A hysteroscopy may also be done instead of a D&C. To learn more, see the topic Hysteroscopy.
  • An endometrial biopsy is not usually done during or after menopause unless a woman has abnormal vaginal bleeding.