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Aftercare for large biopsy on vulva with stitches

Lyndseyt
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I've had vulva cancer previously in a very small area , only needed a punch biopsy to diagnose , went for a check up on weds , have a very large area or possible cancer return , I wasn't told how long I can't bathe for , I can shower but I do love a bath , my last surgery was nearly 6 years ago so I can't remember the after care , so any advice would be greatly appreciated , thank you x

  • Hello Lyndseyt

    I just wanted to let you know that our nurse team is now out of the office until Tuesday morning but they will reply as soon as they're able to after the bank holiday weekend. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator 

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    Hi Lyndsey

    Fellow vulva cancer patient here. I had a number of biopsies taken a couple of months before my vulvectomy and I was told to avoid long, hot baths for at least a week as it could make the stitches go "soggy". In the end I didn't have soak in the bath until the biopsy sites were healed. I was also told to avoid scented soap/products and to dab the area dry. 

    Xx

  • Hello and thank you for your post,

    I have checked with several NHS hospital websites for information about the aftercare after having surgery on the vulva area. They all say to keep the area clean with a daily bath or shower (you can do this 24 hours after having the procedure done). 

    You can see two of the NHS hospitals' information here and here (right click to open this) 

    I hope this has been helpful.  Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Take care,

    Caroline 

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