Vulval Biopsy

Vulval Biopsy

Patient Information

Gynaecology Department

Author ID:           JM

Leaflet Ref:         Gyn 070

Version:              1

Leaflet title:         Vulval Biopsy 

Date Produced:   Nov 2024 

Expiry Date:        Nov 2026

Introduction

You will probably have been referred to our department by your GP due to irritation/ soreness in the Vulval area. The specialist may want to do a vulval biopsy during your visit to help identify the cause of your irritation/ soreness.

How is the biopsy performed? 

The specialist will clean the area first and then inject some local anaesthetic into the affected area. This can sting, but it works quickly to numb the area, so that you should not feel the biopsy. Usually, a punch biopsy will be performed; this is where a small instrument is used to take a little biopsy (approximately 4mm size). Once the piece of tissue is removed, a stitch may be put in to help stop the bleeding. If a stitch isn’t required, a chemical called Silver Nitrate may be applied to the area instead.

Benefits

The piece of tissue removed will be sent to the laboratory to be analysed. The results will help us to diagnose and treat your vulval condition.

Risks 

There is a small risk of bleeding following the biopsy. If you notice any bleeding, you can apply firm, continuous pressure to the area for 20 minutes. If the bleeding persists, you can ring the Women’s Health Unit during normal hours, or Swinley Ward if it is out of hours. (numbers below). 

There is a small risk of infection following the biopsy. If the area becomes red or swollen, or you notice any discharge from the area, you can contact your GP; outside of normal hours, you can contact Swinley Ward. 

Advice following the procedure 

Once the local anaesthetic has worn off, you may feel some discomfort. Mild painkillers should help to relieve any discomfort. Please follow the dosage instructions on the packet or ask your pharmacist for advice.

You may find that the biopsy area stings when you pass water. It may be more comfortable to pour a glass of tepid water over the area whilst you pass urine, so as to dilute the urine and help relieve any stinging. 

It is advisable not to bathe or shower for the first 24 hours, as this may cause some bleeding. After this time, it is preferable to shower rather than bathe for 7-10 days, to give the area time to heal; please avoid the use of shower gel or soap on the biopsy area. If you only have access to a bath, please limit the amount of time that the biopsy site is under water initially and avoid adding bathing products. 

The stitch will dissolve; this can take 2-3 weeks sometimes.

Your results can take 4-6 weeks. Your specialist will either write to you with the results or ask you to come back to clinic to discuss your results in person. 

Contact Information 

Women’s Health Care Unit Leigh 

Monday to Friday 8.30am – 5pm

Telephone  01942 264960 or 01942 264959

Out of hours 

Swinley Ward 

Royal Albert Edward Infirmary, Wigan

01942 822072