Maintaining good health is crucial for everyone, and pelvic exams are an essential part of healthcare for women. These exams help prevent diseases and unwanted conditions such as cervical cancer, fibroids, and yeast infections. Today, we’ll guide you through the signs that indicate when you should get a pelvic exam and how to prepare for it.

What is a Pelvic Exam and How is it Done?

A pelvic exam is a screening process to check for abnormalities in the pelvic organs, including the vagina, cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, bladder, and rectum. During the exam, the doctor inserts one or two fingers into the vagina while pressing on the lower abdomen with the other hand to feel for any lumps and to assess the shape, size, and position of the uterus.

Additionally, the doctor uses a speculum to view the vaginal walls and cervix and collects cell samples for cervical cancer screening. The results of the pelvic exam are usually available on the same day, but cervical cancer screening results may take about a week. Additional tests, such as a rectal exam or a bladder ultrasound, may be performed if more detailed examination is needed.

Signs That Indicate You Should Get a Pelvic Exam

·       Abnormal Vaginal Discharge: Normal discharge is usually white or clear mucus with a mild odor. If the discharge has a foul smell, is foamy, lumpy, or has an unusual color (green, pink, red, or yellow), or if there is frequent itching, you should see a doctor.

·       Vaginal Bleeding: Unusual bleeding between periods, such as bleeding after sex, can indicate health issues like sexually transmitted infections (STIs), cervical inflammation, vaginal inflammation, ectopic pregnancy, or serious conditions like reproductive system cancers.

·       Lower Abdominal Pain: Pain in the lower abdomen not related to menstruation can signal an underlying issue that needs medical diagnosis.

·       Burning Sensation: Pain or discomfort in the vagina during urination or intercourse.

·       Irregular Periods: Periods that are unusually long (over seven days) or irregular can be signs of conditions affecting the uterus, such as endometrial cancer, premature ovarian failure, or ectopic pregnancy.

·       Abdominal Lumps: If you feel a lump in the lower abdomen during self-examination, regardless of its size or hardness, a pelvic exam is needed for diagnosis.

·       Infertility Issues

Five Reasons Why Women Should Have Regular Pelvic Exams

Many believe that pelvic exams are only necessary when symptoms occur. However, regular exams are crucial for early detection and treatment. Here are five reasons why women should have regular pelvic exams:

1.        Early Disease Detection: Pelvic exams can identify dangerous conditions such as cervical cancer, fibroids, and ovarian cancer early on.

2.        Internal Organ Check: Regular exams ensure that the pelvic organs are functioning correctly.

3.        Preventing Asymptomatic Diseases: Some conditions like cysts or fibroids may not show symptoms initially but can be detected through a pelvic exam.

4.        Reducing Treatment Costs: Early detection through regular exams can prevent prolonged and costly treatments.

5.        Preventing STI Spread: STIs such as hepatitis B, herpes, or chlamydia might not show symptoms but can be diagnosed and managed through regular exams.

Things to Know Before a Pelvic Exam

·       Schedule Around Your Period: Avoid scheduling the exam during your period to ensure accurate results. Ideally, have the exam a week after your period ends or a week before it starts.

·       Avoid Douching or Vaginal Suppositories: Do not use these 48 hours before the exam.

·       Avoid Intercourse: Refrain from sexual activity before the exam.

·       Wear Comfortable Clothing: Choose easily removable pants, as you will change into a provided gown for the exam.

·       Do Not Clean Excessively: If you have abnormal discharge, see the doctor without cleaning it away so they can make an accurate diagnosis.

·       No Need to Shave: Shaving is not necessary.

·       Empty Your Bladder: Do this before the exam.

·       Request a Female Doctor if Needed: If you are uncomfortable or anxious, you can ask for a female doctor. If a male doctor performs the exam, a female nurse will be present to assist.

Pelvic exams are crucial for women’s health, helping to reduce the risk of various diseases and prevent the spread of STIs. For Krungthai-AXA Life Insurance customers interested in health care, more health-related articles are available on https://www.krungthai-axa.co.th/th/health-advisories

References:

·       Medpark
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·       Paolo Hospital
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·       Intouch Medicare
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·       Synphaet Hospital
https://bit.ly/4cNmNbS