Pelvic Exams

Pelvic Exams

“The Vital Guide to Pelvic Exams”

Physical and visualisation tests are performed on internal organs such as the vagina, cervix, uterus, vulva, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and rectum. During the procedure an instrument called a speculum is inserted deeply into vagina so that it expands and allows the examination of the vagina and cervix for signs of disease.

Cell samples might be collected for a Pap smear test or for HPV test which screens for cervical cancer. The medical examiner next encloses one or two oiled, gloved fingers of one hand into the vagina and squeeze on the lower abdomen with another hand to feel for bumps and also to pattern the dimensions, shape, and location of the uterus and ovaries. The rectum might also be examined for inflammations or abnormal areas.


pelvic examination

This is how the pelvic exams is performed where vagina is slightly squeezed on the lower abdomen with the gloved hand.


What justifies a pelvic exam?

A standard element of your treatment is a pelvic exam. Moreover, they can support in shaping the cause of symptoms such as vaginal haemorrhage or pelvic discomfort. At the age of 21, you should get your first pelvic checkup. Later, based on your age, health risks, and other variables, they will become a consistent part of your treatment and you might follow them annually or every few years.

This exam may be recommended by your examiner for the following reasons:

  • It might be the history of cervical or ovarian cancer in the family.
  • An abnormal Pap test results or prone to human papillomavirus (HPV).
  • Adrenal ache or pain during sexual intercourse.
  • Unusual discharge from the vagina.
  • Uncommon bleeding or bleeding outside of the menstrual cycle.
  • Examining for issues such as uterine fibroids.

Benefits of a pelvic exam?

  • It can find out certain conditions like infections or cancer in less period of time so you can get a necessary treatment.
  • Helps in finding the cause of abnormal symptoms like vaginal bleeding or pain.

What do investigations of the pelvis look for?

Evaluation of entire reproductive health with a visualised pelvic exam. Initially the primary conditions that a pelvic exam helps to identify for:

Cervical cancer: Pre Cancer cells, or modifications in cells of the cervix that may progress into cancer, this may be the reason your examiner may do a Pap test during your examination.

Ovarian cancer: In case or by chance if the doctor finds any unusual tumours or noticeable changes in the size or shape of your ovaries by performing a pelvic exam.

Sexually transmitted diseases (STIs): This test also primarily helps to check for gonorrhoea and chlamydia, the doctor may take swabs from your vagina. Over and about that, they may also visibly examine your vagina to check for lesions or lumps that could direct an infection.

Checks for Pelvic inflammatory disease.

A note from Dr Kamini Rao Hospitals

It’s logical if getting a pelvic exam doesn't remain at the top of your list. It is a delicate, individual and private area. You may feel the need to sidestep getting one because you find it uncomfortable and uncooperative.

But receiving consistent pelvic exams is one of the finest things you can do for your health. They help in detection of conditions like cancer and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

If you’re feeling uneasy about the exam, you can always talk to our doctors before they get started. They can help you to get through it, let you know what to assume and make sure the experience is as relaxed as possible.


Frequently Asked Questions

Typically, a pelvic exam takes ten minutes or less.
Indeed, pelvic exams are necessary for expectant mothers. Usually, you will have one during your initial prenatal appointment. If you're due for a Pap test, you might also have one.
Consistent pelvic checks might benefit prevention of some cancers in persons who have reached menopause because the cancer risk is directly proportional with age. Doctor advice on how frequently you must essentially get the pelvic exams in the future.
Guidelines about the frequency of pelvic exams can vary. These gynaecological exams usually depend on your medical history and in case you have symptoms. Some medical professionals recommend annual exams.