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Cervical Punch Biopsy
Why have I been offered a Cervical
Punch Biopsy?
An area of abnormal cells has been found on
your cervix (neck of the womb). A Cervical
Punch Biopsy is carried out to remove and
examine these cells more closely. Tiny tissue
samples are taken and sent to the laboratory
where they are tested for cervical cancer or pre-
cancerous changes.
Pre-cancerous changes are known as cervical
intra-epithelial neoplasia or CIN. There are three
grades of CIN. The grades describe how far the
abnormal cells have gone into the surface layer
of the cervix. With all three grades of CIN, often
only a small part of the cervix is affected by
abnormal changes.
CIN I: One third of the thickness of the surface
layer in the affected area is abnormal.
CIN II: Two thirds of the thickness of the
surface layer in the affected area is
abnormal.
CIN III: The full thickness of the surface layer in
the area are affected.
CIN does not mean that you have cancer, but
if left untreated, these abnormal cells are at risk
of developing into cancer over a long period of
time in the future. Cervical Punch Biopsy helps
to decide the most appropriate management
option for you.
What is involved?
 Firstly a colposcopy examination is
performed to detect the abnormal area.
 The cervix is then injected with some local
anaesthetic. This may sting for a few
seconds, but is very fast acting.
 Some dye may be used to stain your cervix
and make it easier to see any abnormalities.
 Small pieces of tissue are taken from the
cervix using an instrument called punch
biopsy forceps.
 Silver nitrate is applied to the biopsy site to
stop any bleeding.
 The whole procedure usually takes around
15 minutes.
 If you wish to have someone in with you for
support then they are more than welcome.
What are the benefits?
 Cervical Punch Biopsy is a simple and safe
technique.
 There is no effect on fertility (the ability to
conceive).
What are the risks?
 Infection: If you experience painful cramps,
a high temperature and/or smelly discharge,
please visit your GP.
 Bleeding: There is a very small risk of
heavy bleeding (for example soaking
through a sanitary pad every hour). If it does
happen please go to your local Accident &
Emergency department.
What can I expect afterwards?
You may experience some or none of the
following:
 Discomfort similar to period pains/cramps for
the next few hours. Pain relief can be taken
before and after the biopsy if you wish.
 Some bleeding & discharge for 1-2 weeks.
 A scab to come away from the small raw make that date.
area left on your cervix.

Contact information
Reducing the risks of bleeding or Appointments:
infection Colposcopy Secretary (Mon–Thur: 08.30-13.30)
01246 513007
 Avoid sexual intercourse until the
discharge stops completely. Health Advice:
 Use sanitary pads instead of tampons until Woman’s Health Unit (07:00 – 22:00)
the discharge stops completely. 01246 512464
 Avoid swimming until the discharge stops
Further information:
completely.
www.cancerscreening.nhs.uk/cervical
 Avoid baths until the discharge stops, but www.jostrust.org.uk
you can shower as normal.
 Do not use vaginal douches.

Practical advice
 Please make sure you eat and drink
something before your appointment.
 If you are pregnant then we prefer not to
take biopsies from your cervix. We will
rearrange a date, usually three months
after your baby is born. However, we
might call you for a colposcopy during
your pregnancy which is NOT harmful to
your baby.
 If you are on your period you can still have
a biopsy provided your bleeding is not too
heavy. Please call the clinic for advice
before you change your date.

Results and Follow up

 Your sample will be sent away for analysis
and we aim to write to you within 4 weeks
with your results. Please ensure we have
the correct contact details.
 This letter will outline your follow up care.
It may be a smear test, another
colposcopy or some treatment. It is very
IMPORTANT that you attend.
 It is IMPORTANT to have regular follow
Cervical Punch Biopsy
up smear tests and appointments © Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
according to the screening programme Reviewed Date: December 2016
guidelines. Next Planned Reviewed Date: December 2018
Women and Children’s Division
Always cancel in advance if you can not