Examination of a womans external and internal genital
organs may be necessary for a number of reasons. These include:
As part of the investigation of symptoms such as
abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding or discharge, urinary incontinence or
Doing a cervical (Pap) smear.
As part of a general examination.
During contraceptive counselling.
When prescribing hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
During labour, to assess the position, descent and well-being
of the baby.
Tests, such as the cervical (Pap smear) or a
vaginal swab to diagnose infection, may be taken at the time of pelvic
during a pelvic examination?
The examination is usually carried out with the woman
lying on her back with her knees bent. While it may be slightly
uncomfortable, it should not be painful. Many women feel embarrassed during
a pelvic examination and it may help to discuss this with your doctor. You
may also find it helpful if the doctor explains precisely what she/he is
going to do.
Your doctor will wear gloves to examine your
vulva area (the external and visible part of your genital organs.
A speculum may be inserted to allow the doctor
to see the cervix and the vagina. You will feel some pressure when the
speculum is inserted, but if you feel tenderness or pain, let your doctor
know so that he/she can adjust the speculum, to make you feel more
comfortable. The speculum holds open the walls of the vagina so that the
cervix can be viewed.
A cervical (Pap) smear may be taken at this
time. This involves taking cells from the cervix and vagina with a small
flat stick or a small cervical brush. The cells will be smeared on a glass
slide and sent to a laboratory for analysis.
A sample of fluid from the vagina or cervix may be taken
with a cotton swab. This will be sent to the laboratory for analysis if
infection is suspected.
After gradually removing the speculum, your
doctor will carry out an examination, also referred to as a bimanual
examination because both hands are used one internally and one externally
on the abdomen. This means that the doctor will insert two gloved fingers
into the vagina and place the other hand on your abdomen, applying slight
pressure. This examination will detect any growths, abnormalities, swellings,
or areas of tenderness in the pelvic area. The doctor can examine the cervix
(neck of the womb), evaluate the size and position of the womb and can
estimate the muscle tone within the vagina. She/he will be able to examine
for enlargement of your fallopian tubes and ovaries by pressing on your
lower abdomen with the other hand.
The entire pelvic examination takes only a few
minutes. If your usual doctor is male, and you would prefer this procedure
to be carried out by a female, let him know. This can usually be arranged
without any difficulty.
Gynecologist İstanbul Appointment, Gynecologist Turkey