Dismiss Modal

Recovery

After a Cone Biopsy

Choose a preferred language

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.


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

Featured in

© 2000-2025 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.

Find a doctor that's right for you.

From routine check-ups to groundbreaking treatments and beyond, Crestner Health is here to help you live your healthiest life.

Search our doctors
Related Articles
Read article
OB/GYN
After Laparoscopic Hysterectomy for Uterine Prolapse

Uterine prolapse occurs when the uterus drops into the vagina. In severe cases, the uterus may stick out from the vagina. The goal of surgery is to repair the problem and ease your symptoms.

Read article
OB/GYN
Understanding Straddle Injury

A straddle injury is when an injury occurs to the groin area between the thighs. Learn more about this type of injury, including cause, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.

Read article
OB/GYN
Vaginal Foreign Body, Removed (Adult)

If an object is left inside the vagina too long or becomes stuck, it can cause symptoms over time. It can also lead to infection and damage nearby tissues.

Read article
OB/GYN
Female Reproductive Anatomy

Your body has a special system built to create and support a growing baby. This is called your reproductive anatomy. Get to know the parts of your body and what they do.