A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "I need stitches" in Italian
Expressing the need for stitches after an injury in Italy. Essential for medical emergencies.
Ho bisogno di punti di sutura.
oh bee-ZOH-nyoh dee POON-tee dee soo-TOO-rahneutral
Italian TTS · 0:01
If you have a deep cut or wound that you believe needs to be closed with stitches, say this to a doctor or at a pharmacy. It clearly communicates the severity of the injury.
Alternatives
- Mi servono i punti.Slightly more colloquial, but still understood by medical staff.
- Devo farmi mettere i punti.More descriptive, meaning 'I need to have stitches put in'.
Ways to get it wrong
Confusing 'punti' with 'points'
'Punti' here specifically means stitches, not general points or marks.
Using 'cuciture' instead of 'punti'
'Cuciture' refers to seams in clothing; 'punti di sutura' is the correct medical term for stitches.
A small cultural note
While this is the standard medical term, Italians might also use more descriptive language depending on the situation and who they are speaking to.
Frequently asked
What to say if I cut myself badly in Italy?
Say 'Ho bisogno di punti di sutura' to medical personnel. This phrase clearly indicates you need stitches for a wound.
Can I just say 'stitches' in Italian?
The direct translation is 'punti di sutura'. While 'punti' alone might be understood in context, using the full phrase is more precise for medical situations.
Where do I go if I need stitches in Italy?
You should go to the nearest 'pronto soccorso' (emergency room) or a 'guardia medica' (on-call medical service). You can also ask for help at a 'farmacia' (pharmacy).
