A pelvic exam is what a  doctor’s uses to look  for signs of illnesses in a woman’s reproductive organs. It can be done as a regular checkup or recommended by your doctor when you complain of unusual symptoms such as pelvic pain or vaginal discharge. It is a fairly short procedure. The doctor checks your vulva, vagina, cervix, uterus , rectum and pelvis including the ovaries. He will check for masses, growths  or abnormalities . Your doctor will recommend how often you have a pelvic exam  however most women have it once a year.

He may also perform  a pap smear  which is a screening for cervical cancer.

Why is a pelvic exam done ?

You may need a pelvic exam for the following reasons.

Check your gynecological health : This includes checking for signs of  a variety of disorders such as

• sexually transmitted disease
• ovarian cyst
• uterine fibroids
• early signs of cancer

To diagnose a medical condition : If you are experiencing gynecological symptoms such as pelvic pain, abnormal vaginal discharge, unusual vaginal bleeding  , skin changes or urinary problems, your doctor may suggest a pelvic exam. It will help the doctor determine the possible cause of your symptoms.

How to prepare for a pelvic exam

You do not need any preparations for a pelvic exam.  However your doctor may recommend that you schedule the exam on a day when you do not  have your menstrual period.

You may also be more comfortable if you empty your bladder before the exam.

What to expect during pelvic exam

It is performed in the doctor office and take only a few minutes. You will be asked to change your outfit and into a gown. For more privacy, you will be given a sheet to wrap around your waist . Your doctor may also listen to your heart and lungs and perform a breast exam before the procedure.

During the exam, you will be asked to lie on your back on an examining table. Your knees needs to be bent and your feet placed on the corners of the table or in supports called stirrups. You will also be asked to slide your body toward the end of the table and let your knees fall open.

The exam usually includes the following :

• external visual exam which involves inspection of your vulva for swelling, redness, swelling, irritation, redness and sores
• internal exam in which the doctor uses a speculum to spread open your vaginal walls and view your vagina and cervix.
• pap smear in which the doctor collects samples of the cervical cells
• bimanual exam : The doctor will 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 because the doctor cannot view your  pelvic organs, including your uterus and ovaries from outside your body so he needs   to feel (palpate) your abdomen and pelvis . The doctor checks the size and shape of the uterus and ovaries . He will check for tenderness  and unusual growths. The doctor will also insert a gloved finger in the rectum to check for tenderness, growth and irregularities.

After the exam , you can get dressed and discuss the results with the doctor.

The results

Your doctor will immediately tell you if he found anything unusual. Results of a pap smear may take a few days. Your doctor will  discuss any additional tests, follow ups or treatments needed.

Ask the doctor about any questions or concerns you may have.