A Labor backbencher will take extended leave from federal parliament after being admitted to hospital to have an oral tumour removed.

Fiona Phillips, who represents the seat of Gilmore on the NSW south coast, said in a statement she was admitted to a Sydney hospital on Tuesday for surgery.

“Following the surgery, I will be taking an extended period of time over the coming weeks to fully recover at home,” she wrote on Facebook.

“At this stage, I do not know whether the tumour is benign or something more sinister, although tests over recent months have been as good as they can be.”

Ms Phillips has represented the electorate since 2019, retaining the seat at the 2022 election by a narrow margin in one of the tightest contests of the campaign.

The backbencher said she was looking to return to parliament as soon as possible.

She also used the announcement of her hospital admission to urge people to check up on health issues.

“It’s also a timely reminder to make sure that you look after your own health,” she said.

“Don’t delay, do that regular health check. If you’re concerned about your health, see your health practitioner, it could just help save your life.”