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It cannot be overstated how vital a pelvic exam is to your reproductive and sexual health. Our team at MAIA can detect a number of concerns that range from infections to cancer with the help of a pelvic exam. And by having a regular pelvic exam, you can maintain your sexual health and ensure you find any issues early when they can be easily treated.  

What is a Pelvic Exam? 

A pelvic exam is a type of physical examination done to check the health of your sexual and reproductive organs. They are typically done with a regular checkup or as needed if you’re experiencing symptoms. While you can have one annually, they are recommended every 1-3 years or more if you’re experiencing specific issues like vaginal or pelvic pain or suspect you have an STI.  

During the exam, your healthcare provider will check your vulva, vagina, cervix, fallopian tubes, uterus, bladder, rectum, and pelvis for any abnormalities or changes. 

A Pap smear, HPV test, and STI test can also be done during a pelvic exam. 

Who Needs a Pelvic Exam?

Adults with female reproductive and sex organs need a pelvic exam starting at the age of 21 through the age of 65. They are part of routine healthcare. How often you have one can depend on a variety of factors, including medical history, family history of cervical cancer, ovarian cancer, or other related health conditions, whether you’re pregnant or not, and your age. Regular pelvic exams during pregnancy are vital.

If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, a pelvic exam is usually recommended:

  • Pain during sex
  • Vaginal bleeding
  • Vaginal discharge
  • Skin changes
  • Pelvic pain
  • Urinary problems

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What to Expect During A Pelvic Exam

A typical pelvic exam only lasts a few minutes. We’ll ask you to undress below the waist and give you a sheet or gown. You’ll then lie down on the exam table, slide your hips near the edge, and position your feet into the stirrups.

To start the exam, Dr. Wolowick or Dr. Mitchell will look at your vulva and all the external structures to see if there are any skin changes or abnormalities. Next, she’ll insert a plastic speculum into your vagina. This tool keeps the vagina open so she can see and feel the cervix and other internal structures. This is where a Pap or HPV test will be done. Next, they’ll take out the speculum and use her gloved hand to check your vagina and cervix. Your provider will also press on your stomach and pelvis to feel for abnormalities in your uterus and ovaries.

If you’re experiencing any issues with your rectum, they may also gently place a gloved finger inside the rectum to feel for any changes.

During the pelvic exam, you are free to have a chaperone in the room. This can be a nurse, medical assistant, or even a partner, family member, or friend.

Pelvic Exam Results 

After your pelvic exam, Dr. Wolowick or Dr. Mitchell will let you know if they noticed anything unusual. If a Pap, HPV, or STI test were done, those results will come later. Once the pelvic exam is done, you can return to your normal routine immediately. At most, you may notice some light vaginal bleeding, but beyond that, you should not have any issues.  

Frequently Asked Questions

What do I need to know before a pelvic exam?

Try to schedule your pelvic exam for when you’re not on your period, and avoid sex a few days beforehand. We will ask you if you need to empty your bladder before the exam. During the exam, your provider will walk you through each step to ensure you’re comfortable and know what to expect. We’ll look at the vulva and external genitalia, and then use a speculum to check your vagina and cervix. If you are over the age of 30, or complaining of any pain or issues, then we will then use our hands to palpate your uterus and ovaries, checking for any lumps or bumps.

What are the potential risks of a pelvic exam?

There are no risks with a pelvic exam. Some patients may have some discomfort and light spotting, but that’s about it. We will do our best to put you at ease and we will only do what you are comfortable with having done.

What are the benefits of a pelvic exam?

Having a regular pelvic exam can be incredibly beneficial. The exam will screen for cervical cancer and STDs, as well as looking for any lumps or bumps that may indicate issues such as ovarian cysts, fibroids, and other infections or cancers.

At what age should I get a pelvic exam?

STD screening should be offered annually up to the age of 25, and then as requested. STD screening can be done through a urine test for those under age 21. Pap smears begin at age 21, and are offered every 3-5 years. Pelvic exams start at age 30, or with any concerns.

What abnormalities can be found during a pelvic exam?

STIs, yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, abnormal cervical cells, and uterine and ovarian issues can all be detected during a pelvic exam.

How long does a pelvic exam take?

A pelvic exam takes only a few minutes. It’s a very quick exam.

What five areas are checked during a pelvic exam?

Your external genitalia (vulva), vagina, cervix, uterus and ovaries are checked during a typical pelvic exam. The rectum may also be examined if there are any concerns there.

What is the difference between a pelvic exam and a pap smear?

Pelvic exams and pap smears are often done at the same time, but they are two different procedures. A pap smear is a test to screen for cervical cancer, where a speculum is inserted into the vagina to visualize your cervix and then cells are brushed from the cervix and sent to the lab for testing. Then, a pelvic exam is done to palpate the uterus and ovaries.

Schedule a Consultation  

Take control of your sexual and reproductive health with a pelvic exam at MAIA! Dr. Wolowick and Dr. Mitchell will walk you through each step to ensure you know what they’re doing and that you’re comfortable every step of the way. Book your appointment today by calling our Downers Grove, IL office at 630-320-6703 or using our online contact form. 

At MAIA, we happily serve the residents of Aurora, Naperville, Downers Grove, and Chicago! 

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