Biopsy of the Vulva or Vagina

At your appointment today you have had an examination of the skin to your vulva or vagina. The vulva area consists of the labia (the two pairs of skin folds outside the female genitals) and the clitoris.

The examination of the skin to your vulva or vagina may have been carried out as part of your colposcopy appointment today. You may have also indicated that you have noticed changes such as itching, redness, swelling or a change in colour or texture to the skin of the vulva or vagina which has led to your examination.

The nurse or doctor carrying out your examination may have discussed that a biopsy would be recommended.

Vulval and Vaginal Biopsies

A biopsy is a very small sample of skin which is taken from the vulva or vagina and sent to the laboratory to be examined. This is to assess the level of potential abnormality and to determine whether treatment would be necessary.

A local anaesthetic injection is usually administered to the skin before a vulval biopsy is taken. This will sting for a few moments after which you will not feel any further discomfort.

Once the biopsy has been taken this leaves a very small hole in the skin to the vulva/vagina that may bleed, this will be stopped at the time by applying a special paste or using a silver nitrate stick (medical device which stops bleeding with a chemical.)

Occasionally you may require to have 1 or 2 dissolvable stitches (to the vulva).

The procedure takes about 15 to 20 minutes (from initial consultation to examination being carried out).

Following your biopsy you need to take care to allow the skin to heal as quickly as possible. The aftercare advice that follows will speed your recovery.

After a biopsy, to reduce the risk of infection and promote healing:

• You should rest following the biopsy. Light exercise may continue but avoid heavy work and exercise for a few days or until the area has healed.
• You can expect some discomfort and light bleeding. Over-the-counter pain relief can be used if required (speak to the pharmacist if you need medication advice).
• No sexual intercourse for at least 2 weeks.
• Avoid tampons for at least 4 weeks (vaginal biopsy only).
• You may shower as usual, but do not soak in the bath or add fragranced products or oils. (showers are recommended rather than a bath)
• Keep the area dry and clean. Gently pat the skin to the vulva dry – do not rub vigorously.
• Avoid perfumed products until the area has healed.
• Vulva stitches may take 7 to 10 days to dissolve.
• Swimming can be resumed once the stitches have dissolved and the biopsy site has healed.

When will I get the results

You will receive your results in up to 4 to 8 weeks.

Please remember, it is important to keep all further appointments after a biopsy. If you are concerned in any way following your treatment, please contact our department directly.

How will I feel when I go home?

You may have some discomfort or soreness for 1 to 7 days after this procedure. Taking painkillers, for example, paracetamol or ibuprofen can help. You should always follow the instructions provided in the leaflet supplied with your tablets.

You may also pass small traces of blood (spotting) from your vulva/vagina for up to 7 days after this procedure. If you still have periods, your next one should arrive as normal.

Contact your GP or Colposcopy Department where you had your procedure if you experience any of the following for further advice:

• Heavy bleeding.

• Any discharge with an unpleasant smell from your vulva or vagina.

• You feel feverish, unwell or develop a temperature higher than 38°C (100.4°F).

• Increased pain.

Further Advice:

We hope that you have found the information in this leaflet helpful. If you require any further advice regarding your care, please do not hesitate to ask the clinic staff.

They are there to support you and are happy to help with any concerns or anxieties you may have.

Contact numbers:

University Hospital of North Tees

Outpatients Department:
Monday to Friday, 09.00am to 5.00pm
Telephone: 01642 624172

University Hospital of Hartlepool

Outpatients Department:
Monday to Friday, 09.00am to 5.00pm
Telephone: 01429 522865

You can also contact a Specialist Nurse Colposcopist on the following number:

Colposcopy Hub:
Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 4.30pm
Telephone 01429 522268

References:

Public Health England (2024) NHS Cervical Screening: Programme and Colposcopy Management,  https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/cervical-screening-programme-and-colposcopy-management

Lellé, R.J., Küppers, V., (2023) Colposcopy: Comprehensive Textbook and Atlas

Useful Websites:

Cancer Research UK:
www.cancerhelp.org.uk
www.cancerscreening.nhs.uk

Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust:
www.jotrust.co.uk

The British Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology:
www.bsccp.org.uk

Comments, concerns, compliments or complaints

Patient Experience Team (PET)

We are continually trying to improve the services we provide. We want to know what we’re doing well or if there’s anything which we can improve, that’s why the Patient Experience Team (PET) is here to help. Our Team is here to try to resolve your concerns. The office is based at the University Hospital of North Tees if you wish to discuss concerns in person. Our contact details are:

Telephone: 01642 624719
Freephone: 0800 092 0084
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 9:30am to 4:00pm
Email: [email protected]

Out of hours

Out of hours if you wish to speak to a senior member of Trust staff, please contact the hospital switchboard who will bleep the appropriate person.
Telephone: 01642 617617

Patient, Public and People with Lived Experience

We are looking for patients to share their experiences of healthcare and to join our Involvement Bank. Working with the patients, carers, families and the general population we support in making decisions about their care can lead to better health outcomes, increased patient satisfaction and a better overall experience. We want to listen and work with you in shaping the future of your healthcare services. To find out more about the Involvement Bank go to our website or contact us at:

Website: www.nth.nhs.uk/about/community/people-with-lived-experience
Email: [email protected]

Data protection and use of patient information

The Trust has developed Data Protection policies in accordance with Data Protection Legislation (UK General Data Protection Regulations and Data Protection Act 2018) and the Freedom of Information Act 2000. All of our staff respect these policies and confidentiality is adhered to at all times. If you require further information on how we process your information please see our Privacy Notices.

Telephone: 01642 383551

Email: [email protected]

Leaflet feedback

This leaflet has been produced in partnership with patients and carers. All patient leaflets are regularly reviewed, and any suggestions you have as to how it may be improved are extremely valuable. Please write to the Clinical Governance team at:

Email: [email protected]