Genital Injury
Genital trauma
What it is
This is an injury that affects the private parts of the body, such as the vulva, vagina, penis, or testicles. It can be caused by an impact, a fall, or an accident.
What you can do at home
What to do
- Monitor the amount and color of the urine (pee).
- 12 to 24 hours after the injury, take warm baths 3 to 4 times a day.
- If a hair or a thread is wrapped around the penis or clitoris, try to gently unwrap it to remove it.
- If the skin of the penis or scrotum is caught in a zipper: cut the end of the zipper and pull it downward to try to release the skin.
To reduce pain
- Apply cold for 15 to 20 minutes, every 2 to 3 hours.
- Use a cold compress, an ice pack, a bag of frozen vegetables, or a gel ice pack.
- Always place a cloth between the skin and the cold source to protect the skin.
- Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil). If in doubt, ask a pharmacist for advice.
Important: ibuprofen is contraindicated for children under 6 months of age.
To prevent accidents
- Use training wheels to help a child learn how to ride a bicycle.
- Always adjust the bicycle seat to the correct height.
- For water skiing, wear fitted clothing, such as a wetsuit or shorts, to reduce the risk of injury in case of a fall.
- For certain sports, like hockey, football, or soccer: wear genital protection (an athletic supporter / cup).
What to avoid
- Do not put a bandage on the injury.
- If needed, use a sanitary napkin (pad).
- For young children, use a clean diaper.
- Do not remove a sharp or broken object that is stuck in the vagina or urethra.
- Do not pull abruptly on a hair or thread wrapped around the penis or clitoris.
When to seek medical attention
Unable to remove an object stuck in the vagina
Vaginal bleeding
Sexual assault that occurred more than 5 days ago
STI screening (sexually and blood-borne infections) needed:
book an appointment on Clic-Santé.
In the event of sexual assault:
- Promptly consult a healthcare professional.
- The victim must not wash themselves before the consultation.
- In case of contact with the mouth, do not eat or drink.
- Do not wash the clothing. Place them in a paper bag and bring them to the consultation.
- If a substance may have been administered, avoid urinating (peeing) before the evaluation.
Need help?
Call Info-Santé at 811, Option 1, to speak with a nurse at any time.
Find help and resources related to sexual assault.
Go to the pharmacy for advice on medications or treatment.
Make an appointment at your medical clinic or CLSC.
If you do not have a family doctor, go to gap.soinsvirtuels or call 811, Option 3.
When to go to the hospital right away
A sexual assault occurred 5 days ago or less
The penis or clitoris is trapped or constricted
The skin of the penis or scrotum is caught in a zipper and it is impossible to release it
An object is stuck in the urethra
A sharp, broken, or painful object is stuck in the vagina
The pain is severe or worsening
It is difficult to urinate, or there is blood in the urine
The vulva, penis, or testicles are very swollen
A large bruise appears on the vulva, penis, or testicles
The bleeding is heavy or does not stop, even after following the advice
For babies under 9 months old:
seek immediate medical attention for any genital injury.
Rapid changes in general condition:
- significant weakness
- difficulty breathing
- rapid heartbeat (racing heart)
See also
See the details of Urinary Tract Infection or Pain When Urinating