Wound Care After Pellet Insertion
For Men: Wound Care After Pellet Insertion
First 24 Hours
Keep the pressure dressing in place and keep the area dry. Men often receive a larger number of pellets, so bruising, pressure, and soreness may be more noticeable.
Dressing Care
Male dressings are sterile and have an occlusive covering. This dressing should be left in place for (1) one week. We only want you to remove if the seal is broken or becomes dislodged around the edges. In this case we recommend removal of the clear top dressing down to the steri-strips.
Steri-Strips
Leave steri-strips in place until they naturally loosen or fall off, unless your provider gives you a specific date. Do not pick at them. Do not submerge the area under water until you are sure all skin is intact, including scabs, etc.
Supplements: DIM 150-300 mg daily x 2 months
For Women: Wound Care After Pellet Insertion
First 24 Hours
Keep the pressure dressing in place and keep the area dry. Women receive a smaller number of pellets but the area still may be sore.
Dressing Care
Leave your dressing in place for 24 hours. If you shower during the first 24 hours and the dressing gets wet go ahead and remove prior to 24 hours and remove after showering. When removing the tape it will also remove the 4×4 gauze. The steri-strip will remain intact on the skin.
Steri-Strips
Leave steri-strips in place until they naturally loosen or fall off, unless your provider gives you a specific date. Do not pick at them. Do not submerge the area under water until you are sure all skin is intact, including scabs, etc.
Activity Guide After Pellet Insertion
First 24 Hours
Rest and keep the dressing dry. Avoid any pressure on the site.
You may shower but no baths or hot tubs.
Avoid sweating, exercise, and soaking the area.
Monitor for any signs of irritation or discomfort.
Contact your provider if you notice any unusual symptoms.
Days 1–3
Engage in light walking and gentle movements.
Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous lower-body workouts.
Do not run, cycle, swim, or use hot tubs.
Continue to monitor the incision site for any changes.
Consult your provider if you experience increased pain.
Days 3–7
Gradually resume normal activities if healing is progressing well.
Avoid activities that cause pulling or bleeding.
Be cautious of any increased pain or drainage.
Ensure the incision site remains clean and dry.
Reach out to your provider with any concerns.
After 7 Days
Resume most normal activities if the site is closed and healing well.
Do not ignore signs of redness, drainage, or pain.
Ensure the incision is fully closed before engaging in all activities.
Maintain regular follow-up appointments as advised.
Contact your provider if healing does not progress as expected.
Pain Relief and Comfort Tips
Managing Discomfort After Your Procedure
Experiencing mild soreness is normal following pellet insertion. Use of over the counter Ibuprofen or Tylenol is advised. Avoid medications that may interfere with your condition, such as those contraindicated due to allergies, kidney or liver issues, or blood thinners. Applying a cold pack over clothing for short periods can help alleviate discomfort, but never place ice directly on the skin. Always follow your provider’s advice for optimal recovery.
Understanding Hormone Response
Hormone therapy is a gradual process, and the timeline for noticing changes varies among patients. Typically, some individuals may begin to observe improvements in their symptoms within a few days, while others might take longer. The response time is influenced by factors such as initial hormone levels, dosage, metabolism, and overall health. As your body adjusts, you may experience enhanced energy, mood stabilization, increased libido, better sleep patterns, improved mental clarity, and more efficient exercise recovery.
Follow-Up Labs and Next Steps
After your initial hormone pellet insertion, follow-up labs are crucial to ensure the treatment is effective and safe. At Whitehouse Family Medical we recommend post pellet labs after your first procedure at 8 week. This will ensure you have reached adequate response. Please ensure you complete these labs within the designated window to facilitate accurate evaluation. Additionally, your next pellet appointment will be planned based on these lab results. It is not necessary to have labs after each insertion but required after your initial insertion.
Post pellet labs: 8 weeks
Reach Out With Your Questions
Get In Touch With Us
If you have any questions following your pellet procedure, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team at Whitehouse Family Medical is dedicated to providing the support and information you need. We are here to assist with any inquiries regarding your recovery, activity guidelines, or follow-up appointments. Reach out to us via phone, text, or through our patient portal.