PRECAUTIONS BEFORE OR AFTER A HYALURONIC ACID INJECTION IN THE LABIA MAJORA

Hyaluronic acid injections into the labia majora are a minimally invasive procedure that is generally well tolerated. However, certain precautions before and after treatment help minimise the risk of side effects, optimise tissue recovery, and promote a smooth, even result. These recommendations mainly focus on preventing bruising, reducing the risk of infection, and ensuring proper integration of the product into the tissues.

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What precautions should be taken before hyaluronic acid injections into the labia majora ?

Preparation begins several days before the appointment. The aim is to reduce factors that may increase bleeding or cause an excessive inflammatory response.
During the initial consultation, Dr Romano systematically checks for any contraindications and reviews the patient's medical history. This step helps identify, in particular, anticoagulant treatment, an active autoimmune disease, an ongoing infection, or a previous reaction to an injectable product.
In the days leading up to the procedure, it is generally recommended to avoid substances that may increase the likelihood of bruising, provided they are not medically necessary. These include certain non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), aspirin taken without medical advice, and certain dietary supplements known for their blood-thinning properties (omega-3 fatty acids, Ginkgo biloba, ginseng, concentrated garlic, curcumin, ginger, high-dose vitamin E, grape seed extract, bromelain, Dong quai, white willow, meadowsweet, nattokinase, and serrapeptase).
Excessive alcohol consumption during the 24 to 48 hours before treatment is also discouraged. Alcohol promotes vasodilation and may increase the risk of bruising after the injections.
Good overall hydration is recommended before treatment. Hyaluronic acid has a high capacity for retaining water, and well-hydrated tissues contribute to optimal integration of the product.

Should certain medications be avoided before the injection ?

It is essential never to stop a prescribed medication without the approval of the physician who prescribed it. Anticoagulants, antiplatelet agents, and cardiovascular medications should never be discontinued on your own solely for the purpose of undergoing an aesthetic injection.
On the other hand, certain medications taken occasionally may increase the risk of bruising. During the consultation, Dr Romano will advise on any adjustments that may be appropriate according to each patient's individual medical situation.

Can hyaluronic acid injections be performed in the presence of an intimate infection ?

No. Any active infection of the genital area is a temporary contraindication to intimate injections.
A vulvar yeast infection, bacterial vaginosis, genital herpes, or any other local infection should be treated before considering hyaluronic acid injections.
Injecting into inflamed or infected tissue increases the risk of complications and may compromise the quality of the result.
It is also recommended to report any unusual irritation, pain, burning sensation, or lesion that develops in the days leading up to the appointment.

What hygiene measures should be followed before labia majora injections ?

A simple, routine intimate hygiene routine is entirely sufficient before the procedure.
Harsh cleansing products, antiseptics used without a medical indication, or irritating intimate care products are unnecessary before treatment. They may even disrupt the natural balance of the vulvar microbiota.
On the day of the procedure, gentle intimate cleansing with a suitable product is generally sufficient. The necessary medical disinfection will then be carried out at the clinic before the injections.

Can you have your period on the day of the injection ?

Menstruation is not a contraindication to labia majora injections.
However, some patients experience increased sensitivity of the genital area during this phase of their menstrual cycle. Others may be more prone to bruising or discomfort.
When possible, some women prefer to schedule their treatment outside their menstrual period for greater comfort. This is essentially a matter of personal preference rather than a medical necessity.

What should you do immediately after hyaluronic acid injections into the labia majora ?

The recovery after labia majora injections is generally straightforward.
After the procedure, Dr Romano explains the post-treatment recommendations.

  • Avoid touching or excessively manipulating the treated area during the first few hours.
  • Maintain gentle, routine intimate hygiene.
  • Wear comfortable, non-restrictive underwear.
  • Avoid very tight clothing that may cause friction.
  • Stay well hydrated during the hours and days following the treatment.
  • Avoid applying significant pressure to the vulvar area during the first 24 hours.
  • Avoid sexual intercourse for approximately 5 to 7 days.
  • Avoid strenuous exercise for at least 24 to 48 hours.
  • Avoid heat, saunas, steam rooms, and sun exposure during the first few days.
  • Avoid alcohol and anti-inflammatory medications for 48 hours, as they may increase the risk of bruising and swelling.

Should sexual intercourse be avoided after labia majora injections ?

Yes, temporary sexual abstinence is generally recommended for 48 hours after the injection.
This period helps minimise friction, local microtrauma, and inflammatory reactions that could interfere with the proper distribution of the product.
Sexual activity can then be resumed gradually once local tenderness has resolved.

Can you exercise after hyaluronic acid injections into the labia majora ?

Moderate physical activities can usually be resumed immediately, but strenuous exercise is generally discouraged during the first 24 to 48 hours.
A marked increase in blood circulation caused by certain sports may worsen swelling or increase the risk of bruising.
Activities involving repeated friction in the perineal area, such as cycling, horse riding, or certain fitness exercises that place significant strain on the pelvic region, should be avoided for approximately ten days.

Why should heat exposure be avoided after the injection ?

Heat causes vasodilation, which may increase the local inflammatory response.
During the first few days, it is generally recommended to avoid saunas, steam rooms, very hot baths, and prolonged exposure to intense heat.
This simple precaution helps minimise swelling and often improves post-treatment comfort.
A shower with lukewarm water remains perfectly acceptable.

Should the labia majora be massaged after hyaluronic acid injections ?

Unless specifically instructed otherwise, it is best not to excessively manipulate the treated area.
The products used for labia majora augmentation are specifically designed to integrate gradually into the tissues without requiring any special manipulation.
Massaging the area without medical advice may alter the distribution of the product or cause unnecessary irritation to the recently treated tissues.
If massage or any specific manipulation is required, Dr Romano will provide precise instructions tailored to the injection technique used.

What are the normal signs after labia majora injections ?

Some reactions are expected and should not be a cause for concern.
For a few days, it is common to experience :

  • Moderate swelling.
  • A feeling of tightness.
  • Tenderness to the touch.
  • Small bruises.
  • A slight temporary asymmetry caused by swelling.

How long does it take to see the final result ?

The appearance observed immediately after the injection does not reflect the final result of the labia majora. During the days following the procedure, the temporary swelling caused by the injections gradually subsides, while the hyaluronic acid integrates into the tissues and the tissues progressively regain their natural suppleness.
In most cases, the result can be considered stable between two and four weeks after treatment. This period is necessary to accurately assess the restored volume, evaluate symmetry, and determine, if necessary, whether a touch-up would be beneficial.

Precautions for labia majora injections : key points to remember

Hyaluronic acid injections into the labia majora are not particularly restrictive, but following a few simple precautions helps optimise both the safety and the outcome of the treatment. Before the procedure, it is important to inform your physician about any medications you are taking, avoid factors that may increase the risk of bruising, and postpone the treatment if you have an active intimate infection. After the injections, allowing the treated area a short period of relative rest, avoiding sexual intercourse, strenuous physical activity, and exposure to heat all contribute to optimal recovery. These recommendations promote proper integration of the hyaluronic acid and help achieve a natural, harmonious, and long-lasting result.

Photo of doctor Valeria Romano in Geneva

Article written by Dr Romano Valeria

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