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So, it’s your first pelvic exam. It’s absolutely normal to feel anxious and embarrassed about it. From thinking about how it will feel with the insertion to the awkwardness of lying down, your mind must be frazzled with questions. But don’t worry; you’ve come to the right place. In this article, Dr. Moghzan explains to you briefly about pelvic exams so there aren’t any surprises and shares some practical tips for a seamless experience!
What is a Pelvic Exam & Why do I Need One?
A pelvic exam is a medical procedure that examines your reproductive organs, including the vagina, cervix, uterus, fallopian tube, ovaries, etc. During the examination, your doctor will insert one or two gloved, lubricated fingers into the vagina while pressing down on the lower abdomen with the other hand. This is done to understand the size, shape, and position of the uterus and other organs.
Although it may sound uncomfortable, it only lasts a few minutes and is an important part of tracking women’s health. Having regular pelvic exams will ensure your reproductive system is healthy.
Importance of Regular Examination
Without a doubt, frequent check-ups are key to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Here’re some fundamental benefits of routine examinations:
Without a doubt, frequent check-ups are key to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Here’re some fundamental benefits of routine examinations:
- It helps assess gynecological health
- It helps diagnose medical conditions [unusual bleeding, abnormal vaginal discharge, urinary problems, etc.]
- It helps detect sexually transmitted diseases early on
- It helps evaluate cardiovascular risk factors
- It helps understand bone health
- It helps review and explain contraceptive options
- It helps review the immunization status
To understand more in-depth the numerous benefits of pelvic exams, review this article published by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists in 2020.
How Often Should I Have a Pelvic Exam?
If you’re sexually active and have never been pregnant, it’s advised to undergo a pelvic exam every three years starting at 21. However, if you’ve been pregnant before 21 and you’re over 35, you should talk to your doctor to find the right amount for you.
Top 15 Tips for an Easy and Comfortable Pelvic Exam
- Wear loose-fitting clothes and use the bathroom.
- If you’re concerned about being exposed, ask your doctor if it’s possible to cover you with a blanket.
- If you’re concerned about how deep the doctor would go, talk to him/her before the procedure starts. Always remember to communicate openly, as it will help the doctor to create a comfortable environment for you!
- It’s best to bring a family member or friend who can lighten the mood and support you through the procedure. However, if you are more comfortable attending alone, then go for it! Always remember to prioritize your comfort.
- If you require additional privacy during the exam, simply request your doctor.
- Did you know you can still get a pap test during your periods? That’s right; in most cases, you can conduct the examination even if you’re on your period. However, if that thought bothers you, you can always reschedule your appointment.
- Although grooming yourself down there for a pap test is unnecessary, the choice is totally up to you. It all comes down to your comfort.
- Practice body positivity and relaxation techniques. It’s crucial to remind yourself that everybody is different and beautiful in their own way. So, there’s no need for you to feel ashamed or embarrassed about how you look down below.
- During your exam, expect to feel mild discomfort and pressure around your abdomen and vagina. But keep in mind that it should never hurt. Try to breathe and relax during the procedure to make it even more comfortable for you.
- If you experience pain, you can ask your doctor to stop until you feel comfortable starting again.
- Be prepared to talk about your period and sex life. When you go for a pap test, it’s important to keep track of your last period along with other symptoms you experienced leading up to the examination, including bleeding, cramps, mood swings, etc.
- Know your personal and family medical history. To get a better understanding of your health, your doctor can ask questions regarding your personal and family medical history.
- Remember that you’re fully in control during the pelvic exam.
- Ask away! When it’s your first pelvic exam, it’s normal to have tons of questions. So, clearly ask your doctor all the questions! This will help ease your worry and make the experience easier. Remember, there’s no shame in asking too many questions.
- After you finish your exam, reward yourself! You powered through something, so you deserve a treat!
Get Help with Dr. Mozhgan
As you can see, there’s nothing to worry about while getting a pelvic exam. Follow these simple tips, and it will be over before you know it! If you’re looking for the best gynecologist in Dubai for your first pelvic exam, meet Dr. Mozhgan Sayyad.
Dr. Mozhgan Sayyad is a prolific doctor with over 25 years of invaluable experience and a proud member of prestigious organizations like the European Society of Aesthetic Gynecology [ESAG], the International Society of Sexual Medicine [ISSM], and the European Society of Sexual Medicine [ESSM]. Dr. Mozhgan is well known for her tremendous service in aesthetic surgeries & non-surgeries, female sexual dysfunction, and other gynecology & obstetrics issues [including STD, Menopause treatment, HPV, and more].
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