Managing Pain and Swelling After a Private Area Injury: Expert Advice

Injury to the genital area?

Hello Dr.
Liao, yesterday around 4 PM, I was riding my bicycle and had to brake suddenly, which caused me to hit the frame of the bike.
Initially, I felt a lot of pain, but a few minutes later, it wasn't as intense, although there was still a lingering discomfort.
I didn't think much of it and didn't take any action.
However, by around 8 PM, I noticed that my right labia had swollen.
I applied ice, which helped reduce the swelling a bit.
When I walk, it rubs slightly, causing me to walk awkwardly to avoid pain from pressure.
This morning, I applied ice again, and during my shower in the evening, the labia was still somewhat swollen and appeared purple.
This afternoon, I went to the pharmacy to buy an anti-inflammatory ointment for bruising, and the pharmacist recommended a product called "Ruan" for numbness and swelling.
However, since it's meant for a sensitive area, I have significant concerns about using this ointment, and there isn't much information available online, so I'm hesitant.
I would like to ask the doctor if this ointment is safe to use? Is it suitable, or are there other ointments I could use? Should I continue icing for the next 3 to 4 days before switching to warm compresses? How long will it take to return to normal?

Pei, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/07/20

Dr. Liao Yaopan reply Family Medicine

Hello, it is recommended that you visit a gynecologist for an examination and appropriate treatment.
Online consultations are not equivalent to in-person medical visits and cannot provide diagnoses or treatment recommendations.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2020/07/20

More Info

Injuries to the private area can be particularly concerning and uncomfortable, especially when they involve swelling and pain. Based on your description, it seems that you have sustained a contusion or bruise to the right labia after a bicycle accident. The immediate pain you felt followed by swelling and discoloration is consistent with this type of injury. Here’s a comprehensive approach to managing your symptoms and promoting healing.

Immediate Care and Pain Management
1. Ice Therapy: You are already on the right track with ice therapy. Applying ice to the affected area can help reduce swelling and numb the pain. It is generally recommended to ice the area for 15-20 minutes every hour as needed during the first 48 hours post-injury. After this period, you can switch to warm compresses to promote blood flow and healing.

2. Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can be effective in managing pain. Since you mentioned that you are hesitant about using topical medications, it is advisable to stick with oral medications unless you have a specific recommendation from a healthcare provider.

3. Avoid Irritation: It’s crucial to avoid any activities that might irritate the area further, such as tight clothing or strenuous activities. If walking is causing discomfort, try to limit your movements as much as possible until the swelling decreases.

Topical Treatments
Regarding the topical medication you mentioned, "瑞安"麻腫消 (which translates to a topical anesthetic or anti-inflammatory cream), it’s essential to be cautious with any product applied to sensitive areas. If the product is not specifically designed for use in the genital area, it may cause irritation or an allergic reaction. Always check the ingredients and consult a pharmacist or healthcare provider if you are unsure.

If you prefer a topical treatment, look for products that are specifically formulated for sensitive skin or for use in the genital area. Aloe vera gel or a mild hydrocortisone cream may help reduce inflammation and soothe the skin, but again, consult with a healthcare provider before applying anything.

Monitoring and Recovery
1. Observation: Keep an eye on the swelling and discoloration. If the swelling does not improve after a few days, or if you notice increased pain, redness, or discharge, it may indicate an infection or more severe injury, and you should seek medical attention.

2. Duration of Recovery: Recovery time can vary based on the severity of the injury. Typically, minor contusions can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks to heal fully. If you are still experiencing significant pain or if the swelling persists beyond a week, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

3. When to Seek Help: If you experience severe pain, fever, or any unusual symptoms such as discharge or a foul odor, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly. These could be signs of an infection or other complications.

Conclusion
In summary, continue with ice therapy, consider oral pain relief, and avoid irritating the area. Be cautious with topical treatments and monitor your symptoms closely. If there are any concerns about the healing process or if symptoms worsen, do not hesitate to seek medical advice. Your health and comfort are paramount, and a healthcare professional can provide tailored guidance based on your specific situation.

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