To get the best experience while viewing this site, it is recommended that you upgrade to a modern browser version of Chrome or Firefox.

You may do so by clicking on one of these icons:


southern new mexico surgery center
 
  •  

  •  
    Health Library Explorer
    A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z A-Z Listings Contact Us
    Today's Medicine
    Back to Intro
    Click 'Back to Intro' to return to the beginning of this section.

    After a Cone Biopsy

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

    • Avoid any heavy lifting, straining, and exercising until your healthcare provider says it's OK.

    • You may have some minimal 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 medicine to relieve any mild pain.

    • Don't have sex or douche for 4 to 6 weeks after your biopsy. If the cervix has not fully healed, the tissue could be injured and then bleed.

    • Follow any other instructions your healthcare provider gives you.

    Getting your results

    Your healthcare provider will get the biopsy results and discuss them with you in about a week. They will see you in 3 to 6 weeks to be sure the tissue is healing well.

    Woman in exam gown talking to healthcare provider.
    Make sure to keep any follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider.

    When to call your healthcare provider

    Call your healthcare provider if you have any of the following after your cone biopsy:

    • Heavy bleeding (more than a pad an hour) or blood clots

    • Severe stomach pain

    • Chills

    • Fever of 100.4°F ( 38°C) or higher, or as directed by your provider

    Online Medical Reviewer: Donna Freeborn PhD CNM FNP
    Online Medical Reviewer: Heather M Trevino BSN RNC
    Online Medical Reviewer: Howard Goodman MD
    Date Last Reviewed: 10/1/2022
    © 2000-2024 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
    horizontal line

    Southern New Mexico
    Surgery Center

    2301 Indian Wells Rd. Suite B
    Alamogordo, NM 88310
    www.snmsc.org

    Phone: 575.437.0890
    Fax: 575.437.0905
    Email: info@snmsc.org

    Disclaimer