After a Cone Biopsy

A cone biopsy is a quick outpatient surgery used to find and treat a problem in the cervix. Your doctor may do a cone biopsy if one or more Pap tests and a colposcopy (microscope) 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 medication to relieve any discomfort

• Do not have sexual intercourse or play active sports for 4-6 weeks after your biopsy. Until the cervix has fully healed, the tissue could be injured and then bleed.

• Follow any other instructions your health care provider gives you.

Getting Your Results

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