Sign out
How can you care for yourself at home?
Activity
- You can return to work and most daily activities right after the test.
Exercise
- Do not exercise for 1 day after the test.
Medicines
- Your doctor will tell you if and when you can restart your medicines. You will also get instructions about taking any new medicines.
- If you stopped taking aspirin or some other blood thinner, your doctor will tell you when to start taking it again.
- Take an over-the-counter pain medicine, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve). Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label. Do not take two or more pain medicines at the same time unless the doctor told you to. Many pain medicines have acetaminophen, which is Tylenol. Too much acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be harmful.
Other instructions
- Some vaginal bleeding or discharge after a biopsy is normal. The discharge may be dark-colored. Use a pad if you have some bleeding.
- If you had a biopsy, do not have vaginal sex or place anything in your vagina for 1 week or until your doctor tells you it is okay. Do not douche.
- You can take a bath or shower anytime after the test.
When should you call for help?
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You have severe vaginal bleeding. This means that you are soaking through your usual pads or tampons each hour for 2 or more hours.
- You have pain that does not get better after you take pain medicine.
- You have signs of infection, such as:
- Increased pain.
- Bad-smelling vaginal discharge.
- A fever.
Watch closely for any changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
- You have questions or concerns.
Current as of: April 30, 2024
Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
