Skin & Wound

What is silver nitrate?

Silver nitrate is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula AgNO3 that has many uses and can be applied directly to the skin to cauterise tissue around a wound or to stop or reduce bleeding.

Silver nitrate can cause temporary staining of the skin, turning it dark brown or black upon exposure to sunlight. The staining will naturally fade as your skin regenerates, usually within 7-10 days. We recommend using soap and water only to wash the stained area.

When using silver nitrate products stains can be prevented by applying a thin layer of barrier cream around the treatment area. Once the applied silver nitrate solution has the barrier cream can be removed.

Silver nitrate leaves a black/grey stain which is obstinate to remove on almost all surfaces by normal cleaning and scrubbing.

The products are applied topically in small quantities. There is no evidence to suggest that this impacts breastfeeding.

The products are applied topically in small quantities. There is no evidence to suggest that this impacts pregnancy.

The skin stain is cosmetic only and will fade naturally over a few days as your skin sheds. You may gently wash the area with soap and water, but avoid using any other products to remove the staining.

If the product has come into contact with the eye, seek immediate advice from a clinician

Silver nitrate is a chemical compound with antiseptic properties that has been used in various medical applications for centuries.

Silver nitrate is commonly used in wound care for its ability to prevent infection and promote healing. Silver nitrate applicators and pencils are used for cauterising minor wounds and for removing excess or unwanted tissue, such as warts or granulation tissue.

We are not aware of any contraindications specifically related to diabetes. Silver nitrate acts locally at the site of application and is not intended to be systemically absorbed when used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

As with all patients, healthcare professionals should assess each individual’s clinical circumstances and follow applicable local protocols when determining whether silver nitrate is appropriate for use.

The SDS applies to silver nitrate products with concentrations ranging from 40% to 95%. Separate SDS documents are not required for individual strengths within this concentration range.

Users should ensure that the pencil tip is thoroughly dried after use by gently drying it with a tissue.

Pencil tip breakage may occur if too much water or pressure is used, or the tip is not dried between uses.

It is likely that the silver nitrate pencil tip has dissolved as it is very soluble in water. This can happen when the tip has been exposed to excessive amounts of water or not dried before replacing the cap.

There are no age restrictions for using Avoca by Bray silver nitrate products. They are licensed for use on individuals of all ages.

The Avoca by Bray silver nitrate applicators are single-use products.

No, Avoca by Bray silver nitrate products are not licensed for the treatment of genital warts.

Yes, Avoca by Bray silver nitrate products are licensed to treat over granulation.

Yes, Avoca by Bray silver nitrate products are licensed for use in the treatment of over granulation. Feedback from clinicians is that the preferred product is the 40% strength pencil.

No. The products should be stored in the original packaging and as per the instructions stated in Patient Information Leaflet.

Women's Health

What is pelvic organ prolapse?

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is when 1 or more of the organs in the pelvis slip down from their normal position and bulge into the vagina. When pelvic floor disorders develop, one or more of the pelvic organs may stop working properly, it can be the womb (uterus), bowel, bladder or top of the vagina. Although POP is not life threatening, it can cause pain and discomfort.

Anything that puts increased pressure in the abdomen can lead to pelvic organ prolapse. Common causes include:

  • Pregnancy, labour, and childbirth (the most common causes)
  • Obesity
  • Respiratory problems with a chronic, long-term cough
  • Constipation
  • Pelvic organ cancers
  • Surgical removal of the uterus (hysterectomy)

Genetics may also play a role in pelvic organ prolapse. Connective tissues may be weaker in some women, perhaps placing them more at risk.

Some women notice nothing at all, but others report these symptoms with pelvic organ prolapse:

  • A feeling of pressure or fullness in the pelvic area
  • A backache low in the back
  • Painful intercourse
  • A feeling that something is falling out of the vagina
  • Urinary problems such as leaking of urine or a chronic urge to urinate
  • Constipation or loss of bowel control
  • Spotting or bleeding from the vagina

Symptoms depend somewhat on which organ is drooping. If the bladder prolapses, you may leak urine. If it’s the rectum, you may have constipation and uncomfortable intercourse. A backache as well as uncomfortable intercourse often accompanies small intestine prolapse. Uterine prolapse is also accompanied by backache and uncomfortable intercourse.

If you think you may have pelvic organ prolapse, talk to a healthcare professional. They’ll ask about your medical history and examine your pelvic organs to get an idea of how strong your pelvic floor muscles are. It may be all they need to do to make a diagnosis.

Your healthcare professional may also discover pelvic organ prolapse during a routine pelvic exam, such as the one you get when you go for your smear test.

Your healthcare professional may order a variety of tests if they suspect pelvic organ prolapse. They may also want to find out if more than one organ has moved out of place, how severe the prolapse is, and whether you have other related conditions.

A vaginal pessary is a removable device that is placed in your vagina following a diagnosis of pelvic organ prolapse. Different types of pessaries are available: ring pessary with or without support, Gellhorn pessary and a cube pessary are the most used types of pessaries.

Most pessaries are placed to improve symptoms of prolapse of the uterus and/or vaginal walls. Sometimes your healthcare professional will suggest a pessary to prevent or reduce urinary incontinence during exercise. Pessaries are most suitable if you wish to avoid or delay surgery, e.g. if your family is not yet complete, or if you have medical problems that will make surgery a risk.

A healthcare will perform a vaginal examination to assess the type of prolapse. They will measure your vagina to decide on the best type of pessary for your individual case.

The Portia by Bray flexible PVC ring pessaries have a wall thickness of 12.5mm and are available in 16 diameter sizes ranging from 50mm to 110mm.  The PVC pessary is flexible and has a thick wall. The Polythene pessary is more rigid with a thinner wall thickness of 7.5mm and are available in 15 diameter sizes ranging from 50mm to 100mm.

No

The manufacturer’s recommendation is that the pessary should be managed under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Self-management should be discussed with a clinician.

The manufacturer’s recommendation is that the pessary should be changed every 6 months.

What is pelvic organ prolapse?

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is when 1 or more of the organs in the pelvis slip down from their normal position and bulge into the vagina. When pelvic floor disorders develop, one or more of the pelvic organs may stop working properly, it can be the womb (uterus), bowel, bladder or top of the vagina. Although POP is not life threatening, it can cause pain and discomfort.

Anything that puts increased pressure in the abdomen can lead to pelvic organ prolapse. Common causes include:

  • Pregnancy, labour, and childbirth (the most common causes)
  • Obesity
  • Respiratory problems with a chronic, long-term cough
  • Constipation
  • Pelvic organ cancers
  • Surgical removal of the uterus (hysterectomy)

Genetics may also play a role in pelvic organ prolapse. Connective tissues may be weaker in some women, perhaps placing them more at risk.

Some women notice nothing at all, but others report these symptoms with pelvic organ prolapse:

  • A feeling of pressure or fullness in the pelvic area
  • A backache low in the back
  • Painful intercourse
  • A feeling that something is falling out of the vagina
  • Urinary problems such as leaking of urine or a chronic urge to urinate
  • Constipation or loss of bowel control
  • Spotting or bleeding from the vagina

Symptoms depend somewhat on which organ is drooping. If the bladder prolapses, you may leak urine. If it’s the rectum, you may have constipation and uncomfortable intercourse. A backache as well as uncomfortable intercourse often accompanies small intestine prolapse. Uterine prolapse is also accompanied by backache and uncomfortable intercourse.

If you think you may have pelvic organ prolapse, talk to a healthcare professional. They’ll ask about your medical history and examine your pelvic organs to get an idea of how strong your pelvic floor muscles are. It may be all they need to do to make a diagnosis.

Your healthcare professional may also discover pelvic organ prolapse during a routine pelvic exam, such as the one you get when you go for your smear test.

Your healthcare professional may order a variety of tests if they suspect pelvic organ prolapse. They may also want to find out if more than one organ has moved out of place, how severe the prolapse is, and whether you have other related conditions.

A vaginal pessary is a removable device that is placed in your vagina following a diagnosis of pelvic organ prolapse. Different types of pessaries are available: ring pessary with or without support, Gellhorn pessary and a cube pessary are the most used types of pessaries.

Most pessaries are placed to improve symptoms of prolapse of the uterus and/or vaginal walls. Sometimes your healthcare professional will suggest a pessary to prevent or reduce urinary incontinence during exercise. Pessaries are most suitable if you wish to avoid or delay surgery, e.g. if your family is not yet complete, or if you have medical problems that will make surgery a risk.

A healthcare will perform a vaginal examination to assess the type of prolapse. They will measure your vagina to decide on the best type of pessary for your individual case.

The Portia by Bray flexible PVC ring pessaries have a wall thickness of 12.5mm and are available in 16 diameter sizes ranging from 50mm to 110mm.  The PVC pessary is flexible and has a thick wall. The Polythene pessary is more rigid with a thinner wall thickness of 7.5mm and are available in 15 diameter sizes ranging from 50mm to 100mm.

No

The manufacturer’s recommendation is that the pessary should be managed under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Self-management should be discussed with a clinician.

The manufacturer’s recommendation is that the pessary should be changed every 6 months.

Animal Care

Can the Quick-Stop by Bray silver nitrate products be used on humans?

No. These products are for animal use only. For silver nitrate use in humans, please refer to our Skin & Wound page.

Quick-Stop by Bray products are designed to support minor cuts and wounds. Perfect for routine activities such as nail clipping, minor scrapes or scratches, and other minor superficial tissue damage. They provide a convenient and precise solution for keeping pets comfortable and cared for during grooming and minor pet mishaps.

The pencil is compact and designed for multiple uses on the same animal, making it ideal for home or on-the-go use.
The applicator is single-use, offering a convenient and hygienic option for precise grooming activities.

Both! Quick-Stop by Bray is suitable for use by veterinary professionals, groomers, and pet owners. No prescription is required. Always follow the instructions on the label and use responsibly.

Quick-Stop by Bray may be used on most mammals and birds. When introducing any new product, observe your animal carefully. For reptiles, exotic species, or aquarium animals, consult a veterinarian before use. Always follow the label instructions.

Do not apply pressure during use to avoid tip damage. After each use, gently dry the tip with a tissue, recap securely, and store in the original packaging away from light and moisture. Proper care preserves the tip for multiple uses on the same animal.

Yes, for a single animal. Each pencil can provide up to six applications if used, dried, and stored correctly after each use.

Yes, if excessive pressure or moisture is applied, or if it is not dried between uses. Follow the product instructions and IFU to maintain the tip. (Link to be added here)

The silver nitrate gradually transfers to the surface during use. If the tip is exposed to excessive moisture without drying, the silver nitrate will continue to dissolve and may no longer be suitable for further applications.

Applicators are designed for single use. If any silver nitrate remains on the tip during initial use, it may continue to be used on the same animal until the solution is fully transferred. After use, the tip will no longer contain active silver nitrate and should be disposed of.

The Large applicator features a higher silver nitrate load on the tip than the Regular size, making it suitable for use on slightly broader surface areas. It also has a slightly thicker stick while maintaining flexibility for ease of use and control.

Spray lightly onto your pet’s coat or skin as part of routine grooming. You may gently wipe away any excess with a clean cloth or tissue.

Use the product as part of your pet’s regular grooming and hygiene routine. Follow the instructions on the label.

Yes, it is suitable for dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, and small animals as part of normal external hygiene and coat care.

It can be applied to most areas of the coat and skin. When using on sensitive areas, follow the instructions on the label carefully or seek veterinary advice. For external use only.

The spray is formulated to maintain coat appearance. Gently wiping away any excess can help prevent residue.

Yes, it can be used alongside other grooming products, provided each product’s instructions are followed.

For pets with known medical conditions, persistent skin concerns, or unusual reactions, seek veterinary advice before use.

When used as directed, the spray is generally safe. If you notice any unusual reactions, discontinue use and seek veterinary advice.

Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use. Keep out of the reach and sight of children.

Refer to the label for the expiry date. Do not use the product beyond this date.

Gently tilt your pet’s head and apply the recommended number of drops into the outer ear canal. You may massage the base of the ear to help distribute the product. Wipe away any excess with a clean tissue.

Use as directed on the product label or as part of your pet’s routine hygiene practices.

You may gently remove any visible debris but avoid deep cleaning unless advised by a veterinary surgeon.

These drops are suitable for dogs, cats, and small animals as part of normal hygiene practices. Always follow the instructions on the label.

Yes, they can be used as part of routine hygiene, following the product instructions.

This is normal. You can gently wipe away any excess product.

Store in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use. Keep out of the reach and sight of children.

Yes, they can be used alongside general grooming products, if the instructions on each product are followed.

For pets with known medical conditions or persistent ear concerns, seek veterinary advice before use.

These drops are intended for routine hygiene and general ear care. They support cleanliness but are not a substitute for veterinary treatment.