Having pelvic exams are an important part of your gynecological health. The importance of these exams cannot be overstated since they are used as a screening tool for many reproductive health issues.
Abnormal Growths
During a pelvic exam, both the internal and external reproductive organs are checked. Your doctor may notice abnormal growths on the external genitalia or inside that are consistent with cancerous or pre-cancerous lesions or sexually transmitted infections (STIs). With the internal exam, the doctor is attempting to feel your uterus and ovaries for enlargement. In some cases, there may be indications the uterus is enlarged, which could be caused by fibroid tumors. Larger-than-expected ovaries might be an indication that your ovaries contain cysts or have other growths in or on them. Any abnormal growths need to be evaluated to determine their cause. Further evaluation might include imaging tests or a biopsy of growths.
Unusual Discharge/Bleeding
Sometimes unusual discharge or bleeding is the reason women have a pelvic exam or this issue might be noticed during a routine gynecological screening. Discharge may be considered abnormal when it is more than normal, has a strange color, or is odorous. Unusual discharge can occur due to a bacterial or yeast infection, but it might also be a sign of an STI. Other gynecological concerns, such as some types of cancers, might contribute to discharge. Abnormal bleeding can also be a concern, especially when it occurs at odd times of the month, after intercourse, or is especially heavy. Inflammation of the cervix, polyps, or other growths might cause abnormal bleeding.
Cervical Cancer
During routine pelvic exams, your doctor will typically perform a PAP test, and may also do an HPV test. A PAP test involves scraping off some cells from the cervix and sending them to the lab for viewing. Abnormal results are not always cause for alarm. Sometimes inflammation of the cervical cells can cause abnormalities, and you may simply need another PAP test later to see if the inflammation subsides. Routine PAP tests increase the chances of catching cervical cancer when it is in the early stages or pre-cancerous, which makes it easier to cure. HPV testing is also important since it can increase your risk of cervical cancer and can be passed to a sexual partner. A positive HPV test may warrant gynecological exams more often.
Although pelvic exams can be uncomfortable, they are necessary for diagnosing problems or detecting issues when they are in the earlier stages. Contact an office like Naples Ob-Gyn to learn more about pelvic exams.