In memory of Chaya Mirel bat R’ Avraham

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In memory of Chaya Mirel bat R' Avraham

Steri-strips after cancer surgery
January 5, 2026

Question

My wife recently had surgery for breast cancer. She’s in lot of pain but doesn’t do well with pain killers. Usually I can rub her feet to distract her and she can fall asleep. Unfortunately, she is supposed to go to the Mikva in a couple days but she can’t remove her steri-strips for another two weeks, and by that time she’ll be a nidah again. Is there any way to submerge with the steri-strips? The doctor, who is orthodox and understands the niddah issue, said we can’t remove them. Thanks.

Answer

Thank you for reaching out to us.

We are sorry to hear of your wife's cancer and enduring pain.

In this case, our site's Rabbinic Supevisor, Rav Kenneth Auman, would permit her to immerse with the steri-strips, because they cover only a small part of the body and there is a medical need for them to be in place for a long period of time.

You also might find it helpful, doctor permitting, to pursue complementary medicine, such as accupuncture, for pain relief. A mechanical foot massager might also help her when you are not able to.

We wish your wife a refuah sheleimah!

Please let us know if we can be of further assistance.

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