The Vulval Biopsy test is a procedure in which a small sample of tissue is taken from the vulva - the external part of the female genitalia. This sample is then examined under a microscope to look for any abnormalities or signs of disease.

There are two common methods for obtaining a vulval biopsy:

1. Punch Biopsy: In a punch biopsy, a special instrument called a punch biopsy tool is used. This tool has a circular cutting edge. The clinician will press the punch tool against the abnormal or suspicious area on the vulva and twist it, creating a small, cylindrical piece of tissue that is removed.

2. Excisional Biopsy: An excisional biopsy involves cutting out a larger piece of tissue from the vulva. This is typically used when a more extensive sample is needed for diagnosis.

The tissue sample obtained through either method is then placed in a sterile container.

Patients may experience some discomfort or mild bleeding at the biopsy site, which should subside within a few days.

The collected tissue sample is sent to a pathology laboratory, where it is processed, sliced into thin sections, stained, and examined under a microscope by a pathologist. The pathologist will assess the tissue for abnormalities, such as cancerous cells or other pathological conditions.

The decision to undergo a vulval biopsy is typically made after a thorough assessment of symptoms and clinical history.

There are several reasons why a vulval biopsy may be recommended, including suspicious lesions or abnormalities, persistent symptoms that do not improve with conservative treatment, abnormal HPV results, a history of vulvar conditions, and follow-up on previous biopsies.

It is crucial to discuss the reasons for considering a vulval biopsy with your clinician and understand the potential benefits and risks.

For the Vulval Biopsy test, the sample is taken from the vulva - the external part of the female genitalia. The specific area from which the sample is taken depends on the suspected condition or symptom.

It is crucial to understand that like any other medical procedure, a vulval biopsy carries potential risks and complications. Although these risks are generally uncommon, it is important to be aware of them. Your clinician will discuss the risks with you before the procedure and will take measures to minimise them. Some potential risks and complications of vulval biopsy include:

• Pain or discomfort
• Bleeding
• Infection
• Scarring
• Allergic reactions
• Delayed healing
• Discomfort during sexual activity
• Nerve damage (rare)
• Inadequate sample

Keeping the area clean, avoiding certain activities, and monitoring for signs of infection or complications can help to reduce any potential risks. Before undergoing a vulval biopsy, make sure to have a detailed discussion with your clinician about the potential risks, benefits, and alternatives.

Some of the limitations of vulval biopsy include:

• Sampling errors
• Small sample size
• False-negative results
• Inconclusive sesults
• Variability in pathologist interpretation

Despite these limitations, vulval biopsy remains an essential tool for diagnosing a range of vulval health conditions, including precancerous lesions and vulvar cancers. It provides valuable information to guide treatment decisions. However, clinicians often consider these limitations and may recommend additional tests or procedures when necessary to supplement or confirm the biopsy findings. It is important to interpret the results in conjunction with other clinical findings and consider additional tests if necessary.

There are alternative tests that can be considered depending on the specific condition or symptom. These may include a colposcopy, a punch biopsy, or a skin biopsy. Your clinician will determine the most appropriate test for your situation.

Pregnant women can safely undergo a Vulval Biopsy test, but it is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your clinician to ensure the safety of both you and your baby during the procedure.

Children can undergo a Vulval Biopsy test if it is deemed necessary. The procedure will be performed with appropriate consideration for the child's age and comfort.

A general guide on how to prepare for a Vulval Biopsy is to:

• Wear loose, comfortable clothing to allow easy access to the vulval area during the procedure.
• Maintain good personal hygiene before the biopsy.
• Avoid using any creams, lotions, or other topical products on the vulva before the biopsy.
• Empty your bladder before the procedure for comfort.
• Refrain from sexual intercourse for at least 24 hours prior to the procedure.

Yes.

Everything you share with us is confidential and will not be shared with the NHS or any other healthcare provider, including your GP unless you specifically ask us to do so.

You can receive your Vulval biopsy test results by email.

The results of your Vulval Biopsy test will provide information about any abnormalities or changes in the vulval tissue. The interpretation of vulval biopsy results depends on various factors, including the reason for the biopsy, the type of biopsy performed, and the specific findings. Your clinician will interpret the results and explain their significance to you.

If your Vulval Biopsy test is positive, it means that abnormal cells or tissue were found in the vulval area.

Your clinician will discuss the findings with you in detail, explain what they mean in the context of your health, and provide guidance on any necessary next steps. If the results indicate a need for further treatment or monitoring, your clinician will discuss the available options and work with you to develop an appropriate care plan.

You should avoid any activities that may irritate the vulval area, such as using harsh soaps or applying creams or lotions.

If your clinician has provided any specific post-biopsy care instructions, follow them closely. This may include guidelines for wound care or managing any discomfort.

There are several common scenarios where a repeat biopsy might be considered, such as inconclusive results, monitoring changes, treatment follow-up, persistent symptoms, confirmation of treatment response, and clinical changes.

It is important to discuss the reasons for a repeat biopsy with your clinician who will be able to guide you more thoroughly depending on your situation.

It is important to inform your clinician about all medications you are currently taking as certain medications may potentially affect vulval biopsy test results.