Women must make it a priority to visit a gynecologist for a gynecology exam at least once a year. While yearly gynecology exams usually begin when a woman turns 21 years of age, they should begin earlier if they become sexually active.
Preparing for a Gynecology Exam
Rose Gynecology recommends several steps for women to take prior to visiting our office for a gynecology exam. First, exams should be scheduled between menstrual periods to avoid menstrual fluid interfering with both the exam and lab tests.
Dr. Rose and her team also suggest avoiding sexual intercourse for at least 24 hours before the visit as sexual activity may irritate vaginal tissue and hinder the results of a Pap test. In addition, since our team needs to be aware of irregular vaginal bleeding, odor, pain, or discharge, it’s a smart idea to prepare a list of any questions or concerns you may have.
What to Expect During a Gynecological Examination
When you arrive for your gynecological exam, our team will record the date of your last menstrual period and identify your weight and blood pressure. Prior to the start of the exam, you will be asked to remove your clothing and change into a gown.
The gynecology exam will begin with discussing your personal medical history, sexual history, and contraceptive options that may be right for you. Dr. Rose will then perform a breast exam to search for any lumps or breast tissue irregularities. She will also educate you on how to perform a breast self-exam so that you can check for irregularities between visits to the gynecologist. A mammogram screening for breast cancer may be recommended if you are over the age of 40.
Following the breast exam, Dr. Rose will conduct a pelvic exam. The purpose of the pelvic exam is to determine the health of your vulva, uterus, cervix, fallopian tubes, ovaries, bladder, and rectum. Dr. Rose will use a speculum to spread open your vaginal walls and view your vagina and cervix. A pap test which involves collecting a sample of your cervical cells prior to removing the speculum may be performed as well. After the gynecology examination is over, you will get dressed and discuss the results with Dr. Rose. For your safety, a medical chaperone will be present for your exam.
Visit Rose Gynecology for a Gynecological Exam
At Rose Gynecology, we are dedicated to making women of all ages feel comfortable during a gynecology exam. When you visit our practice, you will experience a relaxed and friendly environment to ensure you’re at ease throughout the entire examination. You can request an appointment or call us at 513-321-7673 for more information.
