Pelvic ExamOnce 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 organs—vulva, vagina, cervix, uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes.

A pelvic exam is done to:Check the health of the reproductive

organsPrescribe and/or fit birth control

devicesCheck for vaginal infections or STDsDetermine pregnancy or miscarriageScreen for cervical cancer, which can

be treated and cured if found early

Before the examTell your health care provider the

reason for your visitYou will be asked about your periodYou will be asked about your medical

historyYou will get ready for the exam,

undress and put on a gown

The Actual ExamThe 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.

External ExamFirst, your vulva or outside sex organs

are checked for any growths or rashes. Be sure to say if you’ve noticed anything unusual.

Speculum ExamA speculum is a metal or plastic tool

used to gently spread the vagina so your cervix can be seen. This shouldn’t 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

Bimanual ExamYour 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.

Breast ExamYour 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.

When to have a pelvic exam:Routine checkup every yearHeavy vaginal discharge that itches, burns

or smellsHeavy vaginal bleeding or bleeding

between periodsPainful intercourseMenstrual cramps that cause you to miss

school or workAny signs of pregnancySide-effects of birth controlNo periods by age 16

Submitted by Sara Fierst, Resident Assistant,

UW-Platteville