Hi all,
Wondering if anyone can advise on what initial biopsies for VIN are like and the recovery afterwards? I've just received a referral for gynae oncology appointment a few days before we're due to go abroad on holiday, and reading about the recovery (no swimming, and potential for infection etc) I'm wondering if I should ask to push it back.
I've seen a gynaecologist who on visual inspection (and due to CIN and AiN history) suspects VIN and has referred me. They were very reassuring and said it wouldn't quite be 2 weeks due to holidays etc, and these are longstanding issues, we're just being cautious etc. The examination without the dye/swabs etc said one 18mm and one 8mm patch, and he suggested biopsies would involved the odd stitch.
I'm torn between wanting an answer as soon as possible, but also cautious about being in a foreign country if there are any adverse effects that I would have to explain in a foreign health system and language.and not being able to join in with the family. But this would mean delaying 3 weeks.
I've been told I'll have vulvoscopy with biopsies, colposcopy and ultrasound (for heavy periods) at the appointment. Is it really stupid to consider delaying this appointment?
Hi Mrs Phantom
Welcome to the online community.
I am sorry to hear that you need to have a gynaecology appointment just before your holiday. I can understand that it is worrying to undergo a vulval biopsy. These links have some information about what may happen and the recovery.
Vulval biopsy | Macmillan Cancer Support
Colposcopy | Macmillan Cancer Support
It sounds like the appointment is going to cover several procedures and I can understand that you do not want to miss out on your holiday or risk dealing with any adverse effects while you are away. Have you spoken with your hospital about the timing with your planned holiday. Only they could say whether there is a risk to delaying the appointment or whether it would be better to do once you return. Its a hard decision to make.
I wonder if it would be worth giving the Support Line a call and talking through what may happen at your appointment and how it could affect you. The nurses would be able to explain the more medical side of things.
I wonder also if it would affect any holiday insurance?
Jane
