Punch biopsy explained
The test that you had today is called a punch biopsy. We have taken a tiny piece of tissue, the size of a grain of rice, from your cervix and we will send this to the laboratory. We will examine this closely to see if there are any changes in the cells that need treatment. After this we will apply a chemical called silver nitrate which will seal the biopsy site.
What are the benefits of having this procedure?
We can often assess the cervix by using a colposcope. However, sometimes we need to take a piece of tissue to help us make a diagnosis and decide what further management you require. This may either be treatment or a smear. If you require a follow up appointment, it is important that you attend.
What should I normally expect after the procedure?
- You may feel discomfort like period pain for a few hours after the procedure. You should take your normal painkillers to ease this pain, but do not take more than the recommended dose.
- Usually, you will have a brown or red discharge from your vagina for two to four days after we take the piece of tissue. Do not worry if you do not have any discharge or if the discharge continues slightly longer than four days, as everyone’s cervix heals differently.
- Do not use tampons for at least four to five days after the procedure, or until the discharge stops. Instead, use pads or panty liners.
- To reduce bleeding, we usually apply silver nitrate to the area we take the tissue from. When you pass this from your vagina, it may give you a brownish/ black discharge which will stain your underwear.
- Shower rather than bath whilst you are having the bleeding/ discharge.
Are there any risks to this procedure?
Complications are very rare, but you may get an infection in the area we took the piece of tissue from. If this happens, you may need to take antibiotics.
Symptoms of an infection
- High temperature or strong smelling discharge
- Pain. You should take your normal painkillers to ease this pain, but do not take more than the recommended dose.
If you develop an infection, this could happen immediately after treatment or anytime within the next 14 days. If you have any of the above symptoms, it is very important that you contact your family doctor or the colposcopy clinic for advice, as you may need another examination or antibiotics.
Returning to normal activities
- You should be able to return to work and normal activities the same day you have your procedure. We recommend that you do not have sex or go swimming until the discharge stops, to allow the area to heal.
We will be writing to your GP to tell them that you have had this procedure.
We will send you a letter with your results which will explain if you need any more treatment or tests. If you do not receive this letter within five weeks of your last visit to the clinic, please contact us.
More information
If you have NOT received your results after 4 weeks, please Contact the colposcopy secretary on 01604 544294 Monday – Thursday between 10.00 -15.00hrs.
If you have any more questions about your treatment contact Spencer Ward after 17.00hrs on 01604 544610.
Useful Websites
NHS
www.nhs.uk
Northampton General Hospital
www.northamptongeneral.nhs.uk
Other information
Northampton General Hospital operates a smoke-free policy. This means that smoking is not allowed anywhere on the Trust site, this includes all buildings, grounds and car parks.
Leaflets, information, advice and support on giving up smoking and on nicotine replacement therapy are available from the Stop Smoking helpline on 0845 6013116, the free national helpline on 0300 123 1044, e-mail: smokefree@nhft.nhs.uk and pharmacies.
Car parking at Northampton General Hospital is extremely limited and it is essential to arrive early, allowing ample time for parking. Alternatively, you may find it more convenient to be dropped off and collected.
This information can be provided in other languages and formats upon request including Braille, audio cassette and CD. Please contact (01604) 523442 or the Patient Advice & Liaison Service (PALS) on (01604) 545784, email: ngh-tr.pals@nhs.net.
Updated: June 2026
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