Women must have a pelvic exam performed on a regular basis. This is a thorough examination of the organs in the pelvic region in the female body. This examination is performed by a medical doctor or another professional in the health industry. This is considered to be a health measure that is preventive in nature. The examining health professional looks for the size associated with the vagina as well as the position.
In addition to this, the cervix and the ovaries are evaluated. The uterus is also examined to ensure that it is healthy. This examination assists in detecting vaginal and reproductive health issues such as cancer, potentially dangerous infections, and also diseases that are sexually transmitted.
Preparing for a Pelvic Examination
If you are scheduled for a pelvic examination, it is important that you know and understand that there are measures that should be taken in order to properly prepare for the procedure. One of the first steps that you may take in order to prepare for this type of test is ensuring that you are not on your menstrual cycle. The blood that is emitted from the body during the menstrual cycle may interfere with the actual results of the examination.
This examination should only be performed in emergency situations while on your period. It is also important that you avoid placing anything in the vagina prior to an exam. You should avoid using cleansing douche, sprays designed for the vaginal area, and medications in and around the vagina. You should also avoid placing tampons inside of the vagina prior to a pelvic examination.
If you are scheduled for an examination of the pelvic region, it is important to avoid indulging in sexual activities. This includes sexual intercourse. You should refrain from all heterosexual based sexual activities for at least one day prior to the time of your appointment. It has been established that discharge that is emitted from the penis such as semen may actually affect the final results of a pelvic examination.
If you have any vaginal complications such as irritation, itching, inflammation, discomfort, or any type of odor that is considered to be unusual, it is important that you inform the examining doctor prior to the initiation of the pelvic exam. It is also important to inform the doctor if you believe that you may be pregnant or if any medical procedures have been performed on or around the vagina.
Detection
The pelvic examination is an excellent means of detecting potential complications. The problems that this type of exam may assist in pinpointing include, but are not limited to the following:
- Infections of the Vagina
- Sexually Transmitted Diseases
- The Cause of Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding
- Pelvic Abnormalities Associated with the Organs
- If Certain Types of Birth Control May Be Used Safely
If you are a female, it is important that you schedule regular pelvic examinations with your doctor so that potential problems may be identified before they affect the health in a detrimental manner.
