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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Meet The TeamWhat 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?
What are the potential risks of a pelvic exam?
What are the benefits of a pelvic exam?
At what age should I get a pelvic exam?
What abnormalities can be found during a pelvic exam?
How long does a pelvic exam take?
What five areas are checked during a pelvic exam?
What is the difference between a pelvic exam and a pap smear?
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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Need more information? Please give us a call at (630) 320-6703 and someone from our team will be in contact with you soon.
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