What is a Pelvic Exam?

If you don’t know what to expect from a pelvic exam, it may seem daunting. At Women for Women Obstetrics and Gynecology, we want you to be as comfortable as possible when you come in for your appointment. Once you know what a pelvic exam in Queens entails, it becomes more manageable. 

What Is A Pelvic Exam?

A pelvic exam is a screening of the vagina, cervix, vulva, uterus, and ovaries. It includes a visual exam, a pap smear, and a manual exam. It is recommended that you start getting a pelvic exam after you become sexually active or you turn 21, whichever comes first. If this is your first time getting a pelvic exam, this may look like a lot, but the exam itself only lasts a few minutes. Let’s go through the exam step by step, so you know what to expect during your pelvic exam in Queens.

• Visual Exam: As the name suggests, your doctor will visually scan your vagina and vulva during the visual exam. Your doctor will ask you to undress from the waist down and give you a gown to put on. Your doctor will then look for any sign of an issue, including redness, irritation, cysts, or sores. 
• Pap Smear: Next, your doctor will swab your cervix to collect a sample of cells. The cells collected will then be sent for testing to detect any abnormalities such as cervical cancer. To do this, your doctor will ask you to prop your feet up in stirrups. Then they will insert an instrument called a speculum into your vagina to hold it open. Then, they’ll use a small spatula and brush to collect the cells from the cervix walls. 
• Manual Exam: The last part of your pelvic exam in Queens is the manual exam. To check your internal reproductive organs for any problems, your doctor will need to feel for any issues manually. First, they will put on a pair of lubricated gloves. Then they will insert two fingers into the vagina while using the other hand to feel your abdomen. After your exam, your doctor will be able to tell you right away if any abnormalities were found. 

As it is a new sensation, you might find your first pelvic exam in Queens to be uncomfortable. However, it should not be painful. Let your doctor know if you have any concerns or feel any discomfort during your examination. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you have! 

What Do I Need to Do Before My Exam?

For your comfort, you should make your appointment for a time when you will not be on your period. Avoid vaginal intercourse or douching for 24 hours before your exam. Typically, you should get a pelvic exam in Queens once a year unless your doctor recommends otherwise. If you have had any complications before, you may need to get examined more often. 

Make an Appointment For A Pelvic Exam in Queens

While a pelvic exam may seem intimidating, it’s essential to get it done every year to keep up with your health. Pelvic exams can help detect ovarian cysts, sexually transmitted infections, and cancer. Early detection is paramount to the effective treatment of all of these conditions. Women for Women Obstetrics and Gynecology can help if you need a pelvic exam in Queens! Our team of six female OB/GYN physicians is by your side every step of the way. We understand that your first pelvic exam might be uncomfortable. We will do everything we can to make you as comfortable as possible. Visit our website to learn more and make an appointment! We look forward to seeing you!