Gynecological exams are routine and thorough exams performed to evaluate the overall health and well-being of a woman's reproductive system. During the exam, the external and internal reproductive organs, as well as the breasts are examined to determine any problems or conditions that might be present. The general examination usually makes use of a speculum for a view of the vagina and cervix. More specialized procedures include the Pap smear for the detection of cancer of the cervix.(1)
This article explains the importance of regular gynecological exams for women’s health. It also provides a brief overview of what to expect during the exam and offers simple tips on how to prepare for it.
MedBound Times was able to contact Dr. Mallika Surve, MBBS, DGO, FCPS an Obstetrician & gynecologist from Mumbai regarding the importance of regular gynecological exams and her advice to those who might be hesitant.
Regular gynecological exams can allow women to solve or discuss their health concerns including menstrual irregularities, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and contraception with a healthcare provider, receive preventive measures, and detect and treat any health problems early on. Pap smears, for example, play a crucial role in detecting cervical cancer and any other abnormal cells that may lead to cancer. The main aim of a routine gynecological exam is to identify potential health issues that can affect your long-term health and reproductive wellness.(2,3)
The ACOG recommends that pelvic exams, including Pap smears, begin at age 21, whether or not a woman has become sexually active. However, your first visit to a GYN provider between the ages of 13 and 15 .(4)
For your pelvic examination, you will be asked to lie down with your legs in stirrups or knee rests, and a sheet is draped over you and you will be asked to spread your knees apart.
During this part of the exam, the doctor will examine you and check your cervix, uterus, and other inner reproductive organs which is an external examination of the vulva, an internal examination of the vagina and cervix with a speculum, and an examination of the uterus and ovaries. They also assess your vaginal health, They are checking for abnormalities, such as irritation, swelling, redness, cysts, or any visual indication of sexually transmitted diseases (STD).(5)
Pap smears
During the speculum exam, a sterile medical device called a speculum will be inserted into the vagina. This is not painful but may feel a little cool. A Pap Smear checks for precancerous or cancerous cells. This is a quick procedure that involves taking a sample of your cervical cells and testing them to verify that they are healthy.(5)
Regardless of their sexual behavior, women should begin having Pap screenings at age 21 according to a study. Every three years, women between the ages of 21 and 29 should have a Pap smear. A Pap smear every three years or a Pap smear plus an HPV test every five years is the option available to women between the ages of 30 and 65 years old. If a woman has consistently normal test results and is above 65, she may choose not to have further Pap smears.(3)
The breast exam is a painless examination where your healthcare provider palpates your breast, feeling for lumps, thickening, or discharge. During this time they will also help you learn how to do a self breast examination.(5)
How to prepare for your gynecologic exam?
A gynecological exam doesn't require any extra preparation, but it's advisable to schedule it outside of your menstrual cycle. To reduce any potential discomfort, remember to empty your bladder before your examination.(6)
One prevalent misperception is that women who are sexually active are the only ones who require gynecological checkups. Women who believe this myth may put off or forego necessary medical examinations.
The idea that Pap Smears are only required when a woman shows symptoms is another common misconception. This misconception may also result in lost chances of breast and cervical cancer early detection.
The false belief that cervical cancer exclusively affects older women puts younger women at risk of not getting screened on a regular basis.(7)
Maintaining women's health requires routine gynecological exams since they enable the early diagnosis of possible problems like cervical cancer, STIs, and other reproductive health concerns. These tests support the monitoring of general health, fertility, and menstrual health. Women who routinely schedule these sessions can take advantage of proactive care and preventive actions. Knowing the significance of these tests guarantees that you remain knowledgeable and actively involved in properly managing your health.
References:
1. https://www.britannica.com/science/thoracentesis (Cited on 31/07/2024)
2. https://www.raveco.com/blog/the-importance-of-routine-gynecological-exams(Cited on 31/07/2024)
3. https://drkarensheng.com.au/the-importance-of-regular-gynecological-exams-and-pap-smears/(Cited on 31/07/2024)
4. https://www.lifespan.org/centers-services/obstetrics-and-gynecology-services/importance-annual-gyn-exams(Cited on 1/08/2024)
5. https://www.kcobgyn.com/blog/first-gynecological-exam-what-to-expect(Cited on 1/08/2024)
6. https://www.topdoctors.co.uk/medical-dictionary/gynaecological-examination(Cited on 1/08/2024)
7. https://www.myprivia.com/virginiagyn/news/debunking-common-misconceptions-about-gynecological-health(Cited on 1/08/2024)
MSM
