Pelvic Examination

A pelvic examination is a manual and visual assessment of your reproductive organs. It is usually part of regular checkups or exploration of reproductive symptoms.

A pelvic examination is a simple procedure, usually done with a pap smear, which allows your doctor to examine your vulva, vagina, uterus, rectum and pelvis, including your ovaries, for masses or growths.

The pelvic examination involves using an instrument called a speculum and a specialized technique to feel your pelvic organs. Your doctor is looking for signs that point to a problem that requires treatment, such as an infection, a sexually transmitted disease or early-stage cancer.

Since the procedure can be very embarrassing to some women, it is usually recommended that you visit a doctor you are very comfortable with.

First, your doctor visually inspects your external genitalia, looking for sores, swelling or any other abnormalities. Then the doctor inspects your vagina using a speculum, a plastic or metal-hinged instrument shaped like a duck's bill, which spreads open your vaginal canal. Often, the speculum is warmed before it is inserted.

Inserting and opening the speculum can cause pressure or discomfort for some women. Relaxing as much as possible may ease discomfort, but tell your doctor if it is painful. If your pelvic exam includes a Pap smear, your doctor collects the sample before removing the speculum.

After the speculum is removed, your doctor will examine your other pelvic organs for any signs of abnormalities. Because your pelvic organs, including your uterus and ovaries, cannot be seen from outside your body, your doctor needs to feel your abdomen for this portion of the exam.

To do this, your doctor inserts two lubricated, gloved fingers into your vagina with one hand, while the other hand presses gently on the outside of your lower abdomen. This is to check the size and shape of your uterus and ovaries and identify any tenderness or unusual growths. Sometimes after the vaginal examination - especially if you are older than 40 - your doctor also inserts a gloved finger into your rectum to check for tenderness, growths or other irregularities.

When do you need a Pelvic examination?

All women benefit from routine gynecologic screening, which may include a pelvic exam.

Your doctor will normally recommend the frequency of your pelvic exam. However, most women have one during their routine gynecologic screening once a year. It is recommended that the first pelvic exam be performed at age 21 or within three years of the onset of sexual activity.

What are the Risks in a Pelvic examination?

As long as your medical practitioner is well qualified and follows basic health guidelines, pelvic examinations do not entail any risks to the patient.

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