Vulvar Biopsy: Essential Aftercare Instructions

Undergoing a vulvar biopsy can be a significant step in understanding your health. After the procedure, it’s essential to follow specific aftercare instructions to promote healing and prevent complications. This guide provides you with key information on how to care for yourself at home following your vulvar biopsy.

What to Expect After Your Procedure

After your vulvar biopsy, it’s common to experience some pain, soreness, swelling, or bruising in the biopsy area. Most patients can return to their normal routines on the same day of the procedure. However, healing times can vary; most biopsy sites take 1-3 weeks to heal completely.

Tips for Home Care

To facilitate a smooth recovery, follow these self-care instructions:

Rest and Avoid Strenuous Activity:

For the first few days, avoid exercises that could irritate the biopsy site. This will help prevent complications and promote healing.

Refrain from Sexual Activity:

It’s crucial to avoid sexual activity until the biopsy site has healed completely to reduce the risk of infection and discomfort.

Stay Away from Hot Tubs and Swimming:

For at least two weeks, or until the site has healed, avoid hot tubs, swimming pools, or any other water activities.

Limit Topical Medications:

Do not apply steroids or other topical medications to the vulva for one week. After seven days, you may use topical medications unless otherwise directed by your healthcare provider.

Monitor the Biopsy Site:

Your biopsy site may appear gray due to cautery used during the procedure, which is normal. You may also notice a discharge resembling “coffee grounds” in the first few days post-biopsy.

Understand Stitches:

Occasionally, stitches may be necessary; however, most are dissolvable. Your healthcare provider will inform you if any stitches need to be removed.

Wound Care Guidelines

Keep the Area Clean and Dry:

Gently wash the area with mild soap and water, then pat dry.

Control Bleeding:

If the biopsy site begins to bleed, apply direct pressure with gauze until the bleeding stops. A small amount of bleeding and discomfort is normal, but if you soak a pad in 1-2 hours and the bleeding does not stop, call our office during business hours or use the after-hours phone number provided.

Moisturize the Area:

You may apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly (like Vaseline) to the biopsy site to keep it moist.

Recognizing Signs of Infection

It’s crucial to monitor your recovery closely. Contact your doctor immediately if you notice any of the following signs of infection:

Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness around the biopsy site.

Red streaks extending from the wound.

Pus draining from the wound.

Fever or chills.

Pain that does not improve with over-the-counter pain medication.

Follow-Up Care

You will receive a call within two weeks with your biopsy results. We understand that waiting for results can be anxiety-inducing, but rest assured that we will contact you as soon as they are available. If you haven’t heard from us after two weeks, please call during office hours for an update.

Follow-up care is an essential part of your treatment and safety. Make sure to attend all scheduled appointments and reach out to your healthcare provider if you encounter any problems. It’s also beneficial to keep a list of your medications and to know your test results.

By following these aftercare instructions, you can help ensure a smooth recovery after your vulvar biopsy. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance. Your health and well-being are our top priorities!