DESCRIPTION
A pelvic examination is the examination of the female external and internal genitalia.
The Pap smear (cervical smear), carried out during the pelvic examination, is a laboratory study
used to detect cancerous or precancerous cells on the cervix. Annual pelvic examination with a
Pap Smear is recommended for most women and more often for those in high-risk categories.
FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
Routine diagnostic check.
Investigate the cause of abdominal or pelvic pain.
Unexpected vaginal bleeding or discharge.
Bladder problems.
A general check before prescribing any form of
contraception.
Pain during intercourse.
Suspected sexually transmitted disease.
In pregnancy, to assess the
position of the baby.
As a part of infertile studies.
Screening test for cervical cancer.
RISK
None expected.
DESCRIPTION OF PROCEDURE
Do not douche before the examination.
The examination is usually performed in the examiner's office, but an examination may be
performed during a client's home visit by a midwife or other health care provider.
On the examination table, you will lie on your back with knees bent and legs apart (legs
are usually placed in stirrups for support). If the examination is performed in a client's
home, the exam may be done on a bed (with the buttocks propped up slightly by pillows or
padding if internal visual examination must be made using a speculum) or possibly on a firm
surface, such as a table top with pillows and soft padding.
The external genital organs will be examined visually for lumps, sores, skin
discoloration, inflammation and qualities suggesting the general hormonal status.
A speculum is placed inside the vagina and opened. The speculum is an instrument that
holds the vaginal walls apart and allows the examiner to see the cervix and vagina and check
for inflammation, infection, scars or growths. There may be some feeling of pressure on the
bladder or rectum with the speculum in place.
With a swab, a sampling of cells is taken from the cervix and placed on a glass slide
for the Pap smear test. If you have an infection or there are signs of infection present,
a sample of vaginal or cervical discharge may be taken for laboratory analysis also.
After the speculum is removed, the examiner will place two fingers in the vagina and the
other hand on top of the abdomen to check placement of uterus and ovaries and to assess their
size, shape, consistency and tenderness. This procedure may cause some discomfort.
Usually there is a rectal examination, where the examiner places one finger in the
rectum (often, one finger is placed in the vagina at the same time) to check the rectum
itself and other nearby structures.
EXPECTED OUTCOME
There are no after-effects expected from the examination. In routine examinations,
the results are usually normal.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
None expected from the examination. The findings may indicate a disorder to be
treated or a condition requiring further diagnostic testing.
TREATMENT
GENERAL MEASURES
There may be some slight vaginal discharge following the examination. Use a tissue to
wipe or place one in the underpants temporarily. If there is bleeding (rare), a sanitary
pad may be necessary.
Any findings from the physical examination or further diagnostic testing recommendations
will be discussed with you by the examiner.
The results of the Pap smear testing may take several days or more. They will be
reported to you by phone or mail. Be sure you and the midwife or health care provider
follow up on any abnormalities that are detected.
MEDICATION
Medication is usually not necessary.
ACTIVITY
No restrictions.
DIET
No special diet. However, you should follow a healthy, balanced nutritional program for a healthy
immune system and a healthy body.
MoonDragon's Nutrition Information, Guidelines, Dietary Recommendations
NOTIFY YOUR MIDWIFE OR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER IF...
You or your family member have not had a routine pelvic examination as recommended.
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