I am to have a vulval biopsy next week under general anaesthetic, any advice on preparationand aftercare?

[frogs1234]

[Shell567]

Hi frogs1234,

Here are some patient info leaflets I've managed to find:

cuh.org.uk/resources/pdf/pa...

ouh.nhs.uk/patient-guide/le...

nhs.uk/ipgmedia/national/VA...

Normally, if there's any preparation before admission to hospital, you'll receive a letter/information leaflet.

Good luck for next week x

[frogs1234 in reply to Shell567]

Hi there, many thanks for help. Only trouble is I seem unable to download, would it be possible to send to my e mail address please?

At the moment my paperwork seems to have got lost in the system + so I am awaiting confirmation and instructions!! Happy New Year!

[Shell567]

Hi frogs1234,

You'll have to send me your email address via [e-mail].

Shell x

[Shell567]

These are the main points from the patient information leaflets:

Before the biopsy:

-Have a bath or shower on the day of the biopsy and wash the skin gently but thoroughly.

-Wear loose fitting, comfortable clothes.

-It will help to wear or bring some close fitting pants (not a thong) into which a light pad can be put if necessary.

Afterwards:

-It is a good idea to rest for a couple of hours after the biopsy to minimise the chances of bleeding from the wound.

-It is advisable not to drive yourself home due to the discomfort you may be feeling.

-You will find it soothing to wash the vulval skin with plain water after you pass water.

-Continue to wash the vulval skin every day as normal. It is best to wash the skin with water alone. This is easiest in a shower, but if you take a bath, make it a quick but thorough rinse. Avoid soaking in the bath for the first two to three days after the biopsy to allow the wound to dry out. After washing, it is important that you dry the area thoroughly. This can be done by gently dabbing the area (do not rub) or by using a hairdryer set on ‘cool’.

-Avoid heavy activity and prolonged standing for a couple of days.

-You can resume sexual intercourse after three or four days if the area is fully comfortable.

-If you are a regular swimmer, you can start swimming again after the stitches have been removed or dissolved or after the biopsy site has healed fully.

-Continue to wear loose clothing for a couple of days.

A tip from patients:

Use Feme Pads (gel pads with a gauze covering – available from Mothercare) to numb the vulval area. Pop them in the freezer before use.

All the best x

[frogs1234 in reply to Shell567]

Thank you so much for taking time to write this, much appreciated x