For Women
Health care for women is called Gynecology. All straight, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered, married and single women who are sexually active or 21 years of age or older should have an annual gynecological exam. Gynecological exams may include:
- taking your medical history
- a general physical exam
- a breast exam
- tests for sexually transmitted infections
- a pelvic exam
- vaccinations
- talking with your health care provider about contraception, safer sex and other concerns
What is a pelvic exam?
A pelvic exam is a normal and important part of taking care of your body. During a pelvic exam, a health care provider examines your pelvic area to check for problems. There are usually three parts to the exam:
1. The Visual Exam - Your health care provider will look at the folds of your vulva and the opening of your vagina.
2. The Speculum Exam - Your provider will gently insert a speculum into your vagina. Made of metal or plastic, the speculum separates the walls of the vagina when it opens. This may feel uncomfortable but not painful. Let your provider know if it is.
Your provider will determine if you should have a Pap test done. If indicated, the provider will take a small sample of cells from your cervix for the Pap test. At this time, a sample may also be taken to test for sexually transmitted infections.
3. The Bimanual Exam - Your provider will insert one or two gloved fingers into your vagina while gently pressing on your lower abdomen with the other hand. This is a way to check your uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries.
1. The Visual Exam - Your health care provider will look at the folds of your vulva and the opening of your vagina.
2. The Speculum Exam - Your provider will gently insert a speculum into your vagina. Made of metal or plastic, the speculum separates the walls of the vagina when it opens. This may feel uncomfortable but not painful. Let your provider know if it is.
Your provider will determine if you should have a Pap test done. If indicated, the provider will take a small sample of cells from your cervix for the Pap test. At this time, a sample may also be taken to test for sexually transmitted infections.
3. The Bimanual Exam - Your provider will insert one or two gloved fingers into your vagina while gently pressing on your lower abdomen with the other hand. This is a way to check your uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries.
What is a Pap test?
This is a test that can find signs that cervical cancer may develop. Providers use a tiny brush and/or spatula to collect a small sample of cells from your cervix (the lower part of your uterus). The cells are sent to a laboratory to be examined. The Pap test is a painless procedure that takes less than a minute to complete and is one part of a gynecological exam.
How long does a gynecological exam last?
Gynecological visits take about one hour. Extra time is needed to complete paperwork, prepare you for the exam and answer your questions. Providers will review your history for approximately 10-15 minutes and the exam itself takes 10-15 minutes, including a 5-minute pelvic exam.
Is the exam painful?
No. You may feel some pressure but you should not feel pain. If you feel pain, inform the health care provider.
How do I prepare for an exam?
- Plan your pelvic exam for a day you when you will not have your period.
- Don't have vaginal intercourse or insert anything in your vagina for a day or two before your visit.
- Women shouldn't douche. But if you do, don't douche or use any other vaginal products for at least 24 hours before your visit.
- Make a list of the questions you want to ask and be prepared to discuss your gynecological and sexual health history.
