What procedure have I had completed?
You have had a biopsy of your vulva, which means that a very small sample of tissue (the size of a nib of a pen) has been removed from your vulva to send to the laboratory to be reviewed.
Risks
No major risks.
You will have had a small amount of local anaesthetic to the area prior to this procedure to ‘numb’ the area.
Benefits
This procedure assists with confirmation of the findings at the vulvoscopy/colposcopy examination and your care ahead.
Why did I have a biopsy taken?
Your vulvoscopy examination showed an area on your cervix which may contain abnormal cells. The biopsy will be sent to the laboratory to be analysed. The result will tell us whether abnormal cells are present or not and how to appropriately manage your care ahead.
What happens after the procedure?
We will give you a sanitary towel to wear to protect your underwear.
You will not need to stay in clinic or hospital and can drive home.
What do I need to do after I go home?
You may experience some or none of the following:
- Mild bleeding or watery discharge for the next two to five days as the area heals
- A shower is preferred rather than a hot bath whilst this heals to prevent infection
- You may also notice some grey discharge from the silver nitrate used to cauterise the area (this will have been used to stop your bleeding after the biopsy)
- Occasionally – sutures are used to close this area. These will usually dissolve within a few weeks. If these need to be removed – your clinician will advise on follow up in this scenario
- You will need to use towels and refrain from intercourse to allow the biopsy site to heal
- If you use tampons for your menstruation – Please be gentle on insertion of this to avoid damage to the healing area. Depending on the site of biopsy – it may be recommended you use a towel.
- You should feel well enough after your examination to continue with your usual routine but we would recommend you avoid strenuous exercise such as aerobics classes, running, martial arts
- An offensive of bad smelling discharge is a sign that an infection has occurred. If you suspect that you have an infection you should speak to your GP to seek review or alternatively contact the clinic if unable to see your GP timely
- Avoid any overseas travel (flying anywhere abroad) until the area heals —if you do travel, remember it can be difficult to get medical attention when abroad and you may not be covered by your travel insurance
- Local anaesthetic usually wears off after a few hours. If you feel any discomfort you should take a pain reliever such as paracetamol, following the instructions on the packet.
You will not be routinely given a follow up appointment. You will receive a letter with your results in approximately four to six weeks.
If you have not understood any of the aftercare – please ask the doctor or nurse to re-explain before you go home.
What shall I do if I have a problem or concern?
If you have any concerns, please:
- Contact or visit your GP
- Call the colposcopy department between 09:00-17:00 on 0191 445 6178 or Ward 26 for advice out of hours on 0191 445 3004
- Contact 111 who can priced clinical advice as required
- Only attend your nearest accident and emergency (A&E) department or call 999 in the event of an emergency