Sexual FAQs – VIII
Q. I want to go on the birth control pill, but I’m nervous about going for a gynecological exam. Could you describe what it’s like please?
A. For information about your first gynecological exam read: GYN Exam. Here is the fast version…
An annual GYN exam is thorough, but the internal exam is fast and should not be painful. It will include a check of your blood pressure and weight, as well as a breast exam and a pelvic exam. For more detail see our articles on pelvic exams, breast exams and pap smears.
You may be seen by a physician, nurse practitioner or a PA (physician’s assistant). She or he will exam your external genitals to make sure they are normal, the clitoris and the vaginal opening. After that, she/he will use a speculum — an instrument that keeps the walls of the vagina open. The speculum is gently inserted into your vagina so the person can see your cervix and take a pap smear. (Also secretion samples for STDs can be collected at this time too). A swab sample of your cervix is taken to collect some cells to examine in a laboratory for cancerous or pre-cancerous growths or other abnormalities will be taken (for more details read: pap smears. ) This simple test is an important part of every woman’s yearly health exam, since early detection and treatment of any cervical abnormalities can reduce future complications.
The manual part of the exam is necessary to assess your uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries, to make sure they feel normal and to check for any swelling or tenderness. Once the doctor or nurse practitioner is finished checking your uterus and ovaries, the exam is complete. For more details read the pelvic exam article.
If you have been sexually active, tell the health care provider and have cultures taken for STDs. It’s your decision if you want to have an HIV blood test done. You need to sign a consent form for that test, and the results will not be discussed with anyone else but you. In addition, information should be made available about the range of contraceptives available and specific ways to prevent STDs as well as teaching you how to do a breast self-exam and how to take the pill correctly if it is prescribed for you.