Day theatre procedure
About this service
A cervical biopsy during pregnancy is a punch biopsy performed safely while pregnant to investigate abnormal cells found on the cervix, and it is offered in Windhoek at Eastgate Clinic. If a routine screening or colposcopy shows an area of concern during pregnancy, a small biopsy allows your doctor to check the tissue without waiting until after delivery when this is medically appropriate.
The procedure is done in our on-site day theatre with care taken to protect both you and your pregnancy. Your doctor will discuss the findings with you and plan any further care needed for the rest of your pregnancy.
What to expect
- A colposcopy examination to identify the area needing biopsy
- Local anaesthesia is generally used, with care taken given the pregnancy
- A single small sample is taken, with pressure or a dissolving agent applied to stop bleeding
- Some light spotting afterwards is common and usually settles quickly
- Your doctor will discuss results and any monitoring needed during pregnancy
Who is it for?
You may be advised to have this if you are dealing with:
- Abnormal cervical screening results found during pregnancy
- A suspicious area seen on colposcopy while pregnant
- Unexplained bleeding from the cervix during pregnancy
- A need to check abnormal cells without delaying to after delivery
- Follow-up of a previous abnormal smear that continued into pregnancy
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to have a cervical biopsy while pregnant?
A small punch biopsy is considered safe in pregnancy when there is a genuine need, and it does not reach the baby or the womb cavity. Your doctor weighs the benefit against waiting until after delivery.
Why not wait until after the baby is born for a cervical biopsy?
Most low-grade changes can safely wait, and treatment is almost always deferred until after delivery. A biopsy during pregnancy is done when the colposcopy appearance raises enough concern that the diagnosis cannot wait.
Does a cervical biopsy in pregnancy cause bleeding?
The cervix has a richer blood supply in pregnancy, so spotting for a day or two is common. Bleeding heavier than a light period, cramping or fluid loss should be checked straight away.
For referring doctors
Eastgate Clinic's day theatre in Windhoek can accommodate cervical biopsy during pregnancy with appropriate care, and anaesthetist and theatre staff are provided on site. Contact us to arrange theatre time for your patient.
Day theatre information for doctorsReady to book your cervical biopsy during pregnancy?
Choose a date and time online and we will confirm your appointment at Eastgate Clinic in Windhoek. Medical aid and private patients welcome.