What to Expect at a First Pelvic Exam

 

Pelvic Exam
Image: webmd.com

An obstetrician-gynecologist, Dr. Keith Reisler, who earned his MD from the State University of New York, has been in private practice for over 25 years. At his Plano, TX practice, Keith Reisler, MD, performs routine pelvic exams on patients.

For young patients, anticipating a first-time pelvic exam can be nerve-wracking. However, the exam is generally not painful and typically lasts only about five minutes. This diagnostic tool is used to examine the female organs and identify any problems.

Many practitioners agree that young women should have their first pelvic exam when they turn 21 or when they become sexually active, whichever comes first. However, a patient is encouraged to have a pelvic exam earlier if she has symptoms such as pain in the pelvis or lower abdomen, vaginal burning or itching, periods that last longer than a week, and menstrual cramps that are debilitating.

At the pelvic exam, a first-time patient can expect to be weighed and have her blood pressure taken. Afterward, she will be asked to remove all her clothing, wear a hospital gown, lie down on an exam table with her stomach up, bend her knees, and spread her legs apart.

The doctor will gently examine the external portion of the vaginal area. He or she will then use an instrument called a speculum to examine the inner parts of the vagina including the cervix, uterus, and fallopian tubes. Any abnormalities will be identified and communicated to the patient. It is important for the patient to be open with the doctor about any discomfort.