Endometrial sampling

By inserting a thin plastic cannula into the cavity of the womb, a small sample of the lining can be taken for testing. It is performed without anaesthetic in the Rooms. It can be used when women present with abnormal bleeding patterns to check the lining for changes that may cause it. Discomfort is usually minimal but some may still be unable to tolerate this.

Whilst simple to perform, there are significant limitations to this procedure including:

• It is a “blind” procedure.
• The sampling is random and so it may miss areas of abnormality.
• It will not be able to remove polyps or fibroids and so symptoms may still persist if these conditions are present

In my practice, I use this occasionally only, preferring the formal D and C and hysteroscopy. The advantage of the hysteroscopy is that it allows visualisation of the cavity of the womb. It increases the accuracy of diagnosis of abnormality which may be missed by a “blind” sample. However, endometrial sampling can be beneficial in women where the risk of an anaesthetic is high. It should only be performed after adequate counselling with the limitations appreciated by the woman .