What To Expect From A Pelvic Exam

Generally, doctors recommend that women over the age of 21 get an annual pelvic exam. When you’re dealing with endometriosis, though, these exams may be required with higher frequency. This is why you need to know what the assessment entails and how it helps your doctor to monitor your condition.  What Happens In A Pelvic Exam A pelvic exam is a medical assessment in which a doctor or nurse will check your vulva and reproductive organs. During this exam, they’ll determine if you have any abnormal growths, discharge, or irritation. The exam typically has three or four parts and lasts for 15-20 minutes. While some aspects can be uncomfortable, a pelvic exam should never be painful. If anything hurts, you need to let your doctor know.  In the first part of the pelvic exam, your doctor will inspect your vulva for any abnormalities. The second part is a speculum exam where they will gently place a speculum in your vagina to get a better view of your cervix. If you’re undergoing a Pap smear, then this is when a sample of your cervical cells will be collected with a small spatula or brush. In the third part, your doctor carries...