Knowra Pelvic examination Pelvic examination A clinical assessment of the external and internal pelvic reproductive organs, usually involving visual inspection and examination with gloved fingers or a speculum.
Vulvar examination : Visual inspection and palpation of the vulva to assess its anatomy, skin, and surrounding tissues. This external assessment begins the examination and can reveal lesions, irritation, or anatomical changes.
Abnormal uterine bleeding : Uterine bleeding that differs from a person’s usual pattern in timing, duration, or amount. Examination may identify cervical or vaginal sources, though it cannot establish every cause.
Transvaginal ultrasonography : Ultrasound imaging performed with a probe placed in the vagina to visualize pelvic organs. It provides internal images rather than relying on palpation, and may answer different clinical questions.
Trauma-informed care : An approach to care that recognizes trauma’s effects and prioritizes safety, choice, collaboration, and empowerment. It supports patient control and reduces avoidable distress during an intimate examination.
Speculum examination : Examination of the vagina and cervix using an instrument that holds the vaginal walls apart. It makes the vaginal walls and cervix visible for inspection and sample collection.
Pelvic pain : Pain perceived in the lower abdomen or pelvis, arising from reproductive, urinary, digestive, or other structures. Targeted examination can locate tenderness and guide further evaluation.
Pelvic examination under anesthesia : Assessment of pelvic structures performed while a patient is under anesthesia. It differs from an awake examination when pain, muscle tension, or another barrier prevents adequate assessment.
Vaginismus : Involuntary tightening of pelvic floor muscles that can make vaginal penetration painful or difficult. It may affect whether an examination is possible and calls for individualized pacing and alternatives.
Bimanual examination : Palpation of pelvic organs using fingers in the vagina and a hand on the abdomen. It assesses the uterus, ovaries, and nearby structures for tenderness, size, or masses.
Cervical cancer screening : Testing people without symptoms to detect cervical precancer or cancer risk, commonly using HPV testing or cytology. A speculum may be used to collect a cervical sample, but examination alone is not screening.
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