Pelvic Examination

Pelvic examination is a  routine check of internal pelvic organs. It is carried out before prescribing any form of contraception and investigate vaginal discharge, infection or unusual bleeding and menstrual irregularities. It is normally carried out at some stage in pregnancy. This examination may be done, if a woman thinks she has a sexually transmitted disease or her mother took DES (Diethylstilboesterol). 

Procedure : Normally women lies on her back with her knees raised and legs apart. The external genitals may be checked if necessary. Internal structures are examined by placing two gloved fingers in the vagina with the other hand placed on top of the abdomen. This allows to access size, shape, position and tenderness of uterus, ovaries and fallopian tubes.  A speculum may be inserted into the vagina so that the vaginal walls and cervix can be viewed to check for any swelling, irritation or redness. A cervical smear test may be taken and other samples if appropriate.