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Pelvic Examination

A pelvic exam is an examination of the female sex organs. The exam may be stressful for many women. This is easy to understand since the area examined is considered private, and the exam can be uncomfortable. Most healthcare providers are aware of this discomfort and will help their patients through it. Before entering the exam room, it's helpful to review your history, questions, and concerns. Be prepared to talk with the healthcare provider about any questions or concerns you may have.

Knowing what to expect ahead of time helps. If this is your first exam, the office staff and provider will be able to explain the procedure before beginning.

The exam will vary depending on individual needs, but will usually include:

• having weight and blood pressure checked

• a breast exam and

• the pelvic exam

A special table designed for leg support will be used so the woman can be placed in a position with the legs spread apart. A sheet will be used to cover the legs. The tools and procedures will be explained before the internal portion of the exam begins.

The pelvic exam will include checking the skin and glands on the outside opening of the birth canal, or vagina. The vagina will be checked with the help of a tool called a speculum. This opens the vagina just enough to allow light in to see the surface of the skin and the opening of the womb, called the cervix. The cervix can be tested for infection and precancers by touching it with Q-tips and small brushes. This may give a pulling sensation or no sensation at all. The speculum is then removed.

The organs deep within the pelvis are checked next. The examiner will use a lubricated, gloved finger in the vagina and a hand on the abdomen to locate and move these organs to feel their size and shape. If there are no problems, this will feel odd but usually not painful. An exam of the rectum may be performed as another means to check the female organs.

This will end the exam. The healthcare provider will review the findings and may ask questions about sex, birth control, or hormone problems that are related to the results of your exam.

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