Post‐Insertion Instructions
• Your insertion site has been covered with two layers of bandages. The inner layer is a steri‐strip and can be removed in 7 days and the outer layer is a waterproof dressing and can be removed in 5 days.
• We recommend putting an ice pack on the insertion area a couple of times for about 20 minutes each time over the next 4 to 5 hours after insertion. You can continue for swelling if needed. Be sure to place something between the ice pack and your bandages/skin. Do not place ice packs directly on bare skin.
• Do not take tub baths or get into a hot tub or swimming pool for 7 days. You may shower but do not scrub the site until the incision is well healed (about 7 days).
• No major exercises for the incision area for the next 7 days, this includes running, elliptical, squats, lunges, etc. You can do moderate upper body work and walking.
• The sodium bicarbonate in the anesthetic may cause the site to swell for 1‐3 days.
• The insertion site may be uncomfortable for up to 2 to 3 weeks. If there is itching or redness you may take Benadryl for relief, 50 mg. orally every 6 hours. Caution this can cause drowsiness!
• You may experience bruising, swelling, and/or redness of the insertion site which may last from a few days up to 2 to 3 weeks.
• You may notice some pinkish or bloody discoloration of the outer bandage. This is normal.
• If you experience bleeding from the incision, apply firm pressure for 5 minutes.
• Please call if you have any bleeding not relieved with pressure (not oozing), as this is NOT normal.
• Please call if you have any pus coming out of the insertion site, as this is NOT normal.
Reminders:
• Remember to go for your post‐insertion blood work for your first round 4-5 weeks after the insertion.
• Most women will need re‐insertions of their pellets 3‐4 months after their initial insertion. Most men will need re-insertion of their pellets 5-6 months after their initial insertion.
• Please call as soon as symptoms that were relieved from the pellets start to return to make an appointment for a re‐insertion. The charge for the second visit will only be for the insertion and not a consultation.