Pelvic Exam

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Pelvic Exam

• Once a woman begins having sex or reaches age
  16-18, she should have regular pelvic exams.
  (Once a year)
• During the exam, a health care provider checks
  the reproductive organsvulva, vagina, cervix,
  uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes.

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A pelvic exam is done to

• Check the health of the reproductive organs
• Prescribe and/or fit birth control devices
• Check for vaginal infections or STDs
• Determine pregnancy or miscarriage
• Screen for cervical cancer, which can be treated
  and cured if found early

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Before the exam

• Tell your health care provider the reason for
  your visit
• You will be asked about your period
• You will be asked about your medical history
• You will get ready for the exam, undress and put
  on a gown

4
The Actual Exam

• The pelvic exam is simple. There are 3 or 4
  steps. You will lie down on a table. The table
  has stirrups for your feet. You will spread your
  knees and legs open so your genital area is
  easier to see.
• Try to relax. The more relaxed you are, the more
  comfortable the exam will be.

5
External Exam

• First, your vulva or outside sex organs are
  checked for any growths or rashes. Be sure to
  say if youve noticed anything unusual.

6
Speculum Exam

• A speculum is a metal or plastic tool used to
  gently spread the vagina so your cervix can be
  seen. This shouldnt hurt but it will most
  likely cause pressure.
• This is done in order to do a Pap smear. Cell
  tissue is painlessly gathered from your cervix
  using a brush.
• Your health care provider also checks for STDs

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Bimanual Exam

• Your health care provider puts on gloves and gel,
  puts 1-2 fingers inside of you and touches the
  cervix.
• They will gently press on the abdomen and check
  the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes.
• All three parts take less than 5 minutes to
  complete in total.

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Breast Exam

• Your health care provider will also check your
  breasts for lumps. She or he will press gently
  around your breast and under the arm. They will
  look for discharge from the nipples and at the
  skin on the breast. You should do a self breast
  exam every month.

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When to have a pelvic exam

• Routine checkup every year
• Heavy vaginal discharge that itches, burns or
  smells
• Heavy vaginal bleeding or bleeding between
  periods
• Painful intercourse
• Menstrual cramps that cause you to miss school or
  work
• Any signs of pregnancy
• Side-effects of birth control
• No periods by age 16

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Submitted by Sara Fierst, Resident Assistant,
UW-Platteville