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Pelvic Exam

A pelvic examination is a complete physical exam of a woman's pelvic organs by a health professional. A pelvic exam helps a health professional evaluate the size and position of the vagina, cervix, uterus and ovaries. It is an important part of preventive health care for all adult women. A pelvic exam is done to help detect certain cancers in their early stages, infections, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or other reproductive system problems.

A pelvic exam may be done:

• As part of a woman's regular physical checkup.
• To detect vaginal infections, such as yeast infections
  or bacterial vaginosis
• To help detect STIs such as Chlamydia, Gonorrhea
  and Trichmoniasis
• To help determine the cause of abnormal uterine bleeding.
• To evaluate pelvic organ abnormalities, such as uterine fibroids or cysts
• To evaluate abdominal or pelvic pain.
• Before prescribing some methods of birth control, such as an I.U.D., which requires a pelvic exam to make sure the device fits properly.

Before a pelvic exam:

• Try to schedule the exam when you are not having your period, since blood can interfere with the results of a Pap test. However, if you have a new vaginal discharge or new or increasing pelvic pain, a pelvic exam may be done while you are having your period.
• Do not use douches, tampons, vaginal medications, or vaginal sprays or powders for at least 24 hours.
• Do not have sex for 24 hours prior to the exam if you have abnormal vaginal discharge. Semen in your vagina may interfere with your exam.

At the beginning of your visit, tell your health professional:

• If you are or might be pregnant.
• If you have any reproductive or urinary tract symptoms such as itching, redness, sores, swelling, or an unusual odor or increased vaginal discharge. If you have been performing regular vaginal self-exams, discuss any changes you have noticed with your health professional.
• If you are using a method of birth control.
• If this is your first pelvic exam.
• The first day of your last menstrual period and how long your period lasted.
• If you have had surgery or other procedures, such as radiation therapy involving the vagina, cervix, or uterus.

If you have had problems with pelvic exams in the past or have experienced rape or sexual abuse, talk to your health professional about your concerns or fears before the exam.

No other special preparations are needed before having a pelvic exam. For your own comfort, you may want to empty your bladder before the exam.