After a Cone Biopsy

Woman in exam gown talking to healthcare provider.

A cone biopsy is a quick outpatient surgery used to find and treat a problem in the cervix. Your healthcare provider may do a cone biopsy if one or more Pap tests and a microscope (colposcopy) exam showed abnormal cells on your cervix. A cone biopsy takes less than an hour, and you’ll be able to go home the same day.

During your recovery

After the surgery has been done, you’ll rest in the recovery area until you’re awake and ready to go home. An adult friend or family member will need to drive you home.

  • Plan to rest at home for a day or two.

  • You may have some bleeding or discharge and mild cramping for a few days after surgery. Use sanitary pads, not tampons, for at least the first month.

  • You may be given medicine to relieve any discomfort.

  • Don't have sexual intercourse or douche for 4 to 6 weeks after your biopsy. If the cervix has not fully healed, the tissue could be injured and then bleed.

  • Follow any other instructions your healthcare provider gives you.

Getting your results

Your healthcare provider will get the biopsy results and discuss them with you in about a week. He or she will see you in 3 to 6 weeks to be sure the tissue is healing well.

Call your healthcare provider if you have any of the following after your cone biopsy:

  • Heavy bleeding (more than a pad an hour) or blood clots

  • Severe stomach pain

  • Chills

  • Fever over 100.4°F (38°C)

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