Everything You Wanted to Know About the Pelvic Exam

Part of being a woman is going to the gynecologist and having a pelvic exam. These 
typically start when you are a teenager or possibly not until you are in your early 20s. 
You may need to get one annually, or every few years, depending on your overall 
health. Here is more information about the pelvic exam.

The Pelvic Examination

If you have never had a pelvic examination before, you may be curious what is involved, 
but you also might just be wondering what happens during this examination, even if you 
have had one before. The pelvic examination is not the same thing as a pap smear, 
though they are often done at the same time. A pelvic exam is when your doctor looks 
at various pelvic organs, such as your cervix, vagina, and ovaries. They might also 
examine your uterus during this time. There are many reasons you might get the exam, 
from the fact that you just started your period, want to get birth control, or are having 
issues like itching, swelling, pain during intercourse, or an unusual odor.

Preparing for the Exam

The first thing you should understand is that the exam only takes a few minutes, even 
when a pap smear is also being done at the same time. However, you will be instructed 
to follow a few simple guidelines before going in for your appointment. For example, it is 
not uncommon to be asked not to have intercourse about 24 hours before the exam. 
This makes it easier for your doctor to perform the pelvic exam and see clearly the 
condition of your various pelvic organs.

You should also try not to use a tampon, vaginal douche, or powders in the area the day 
before and day of your exam.

Why it is Necessary

There are several reasons you should get periodic pelvic exams. First of all, it is good 
for overall gynecological health. These are often done if you are trying to get pregnant 
or to confirm your pregnancy, as well as to look at early warning signs of cancer. It can 
also help to examine the causes of sexually transmitting infections and diseases.
 
Pelvic exams may also be performed if you show symptoms of certain medical 
conditions, including urinary tract infections, unusual discharge, and pelvic pain or 
bleeding. See your doctor if you have these or other odd symptoms related to your 
gynecological health.

