Cone biopsy

A cone biopsy is small operation to remove abnormal cells that could grow into cancer. Sometimes, very early cancers of the cervix are also treated with a cone biopsy. The tissue that is removed (biopsy) is sent to the lab to be tested.

Preparing for your cone biopsy

Your cone biopsy is usually done under a general anaesthetic. General anaesthesia is when you "go to sleep" for surgery. Because of this:

  • you will not be able to drive after your surgery and for 24 hours after
  • you will be advised when to stop eating and drinking before your surgery - usually 6 hours before
  • you should take 1 to 2 days off work you - may need to take additional time off depending on your job so let the hospital know if you need a medical certificate. 

The cone biopsy operation

While you are under a general anaesthetic:

  • a cone shaped piece of tissue is removed from the cervix
  • dissolving stitches are often placed in the cervix to help control any bleeding.

Most people can go home later the same day, about 2 hours after their procedure.

Sometimes a vaginal pack (a thin gauze bandage) is left in the vagina at the end of the operation, to put pressure on an area of bleeding. If a vaginal pack is needed, you will have a catheter placed in your bladder. A catheter is a thin tube put into your urethra to drain urine so you will need to stay in hospital overnight. Usually, both the pack and catheter are removed the next morning

If you need a vaginal pack

Sometimes a thin gauze bandage (a vaginal pack) is left in the vagina at the end of the operation, to put pressure on an area of bleeding. If a vaginal pack is needed, you will have a catheter placed in your bladder. A catheter is a thin tube put into your urethra to drain your wee so you will need to stay in hospital overnight. Usually, both the pack and catheter are removed the next morning.

After the cone biopsy

Most people are comfortable, but you may feel pain. Taking paracetamol or ibuprofen should help.

There will be some light vaginal bleeding afterwards. This may continue up to 3 weeks and it will gradually decrease to a blood-stained discharge.

Sometimes the discharge contains black flecks and may have a slightly stronger odour. This is normal.

Your next period may be earlier or later than expected and could be heavier than usual.

To avoid infection for 3 weeks after the procedure:

  • do not have sex
  • use sanitary pads, not tampons or a menstrual cup
  • shower every day rather than having a bath
  • do not use swimming pools or spa pools
  • avoid any heavy lifting and strenuous activity to reduce the risk of heavy bleeding.

When to get immediate medical advice

Contact the clinic where you had your cone biopsy for advice if:

  • you start to have heavy bleeding with clots (you are changing
  • a soaked pad every 2 hours or less)
  • you feel feverish, especially with temperature over 38°C
  • you have lower abdominal pain that gets worse
  • you have difficulty having a wee (passing urine)
  • you have a very smelly vaginal discharge.

Your cone biopsy results

The results from your cone biopsy will be available in 4 weeks. The results are also sent to your doctor and the National Cervical Screening Programme register.

You will be advised when you should have your next cervical screening test. 

Depending on your results, you may need another appointment at the clinic.