Cervical biopsy

Your consultant surgeon will gently insert a speculum into your vagina to spread the walls of it. They'll then use a colposcope (telescope) to examine the cervix. (The colposcope is not inserted into your vagina.) Your consultant surgeon will then remove a tissue sample or any abnormal tissues using one of the following techniques:

• Punch biopsy: This involves using a circular blade to remove a tissue sample.
• Cone biopsy: This uses a laser or scalpel to remove a large cone-shaped tissue sample.
• Endocervical curettage: This involves scraping the lining of the cervix to take a sample.

Your consultant will explain which technique is right for you.

Your consultant will explain how to prepare for the procedure. Depending on the nature of your biopsy, you may receive either a local anaesthetic (which will numb the cervical area) or general anaesthetic (which means you'll be asleep). As such, you may be required to limit your food and drink intake in the hours leading up to the procedure. Like all procedures, there may be some risks and side effects involved. Your consultant will explain these to you.

Your consultant will explain what happens after the procedure, including when you can get back to your normal routine and when you can expect to attend a follow-up meeting.