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Gynecology exam guide: what to expect on your first 'gyno' visit.

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The day you’ve been dreading has finally arrived, and you’re most likely anxious as your palms are sweaty and knees are shaking because it’s time for your first gynecologist (gyno) visit. This experience may be compared to when a woman gets her first period, or buys her first bra, except this time, it’s more invasive and has to do with your lady parts, specifically your vagina. Before you walk into the clinic and open your legs to a world of stirrups and Pap smears, put your anxiety aside and relax with this step-by-step gynecology exam guide that will help you take control of your body and your health as a woman.

Pre-Gyno Visit

Choose your gyno.

Before you call the closest gyno near you, it’s important to do your research, ask your friends, look at reviews, and try to find a doctor that is right for you. “The first GYN visit should not be viewed with apprehension,” Dr. Georges Sylvestre , board certified in obstetrics and gynecology in New York, maternal-fetal medicine and assistant professor, Weill Cornell Medical College, told Medical Daily in an email. “Do you prefer a female doc?” “Do you prefer a doctor who can speak your first language?” “Do you need a doctor who can relate to important cultural issues about sex and womanhood?” “If you find the right doctor, he or she might the one you'll go to for your birth control in your teens and twenties, pregnancies and babies in your 30's and forties, then for your menopause,” he said.

Go Back in Time

After you choose your gyno, it’s important for you to go back in time and think about your sexual history and menstrual history. The number of partners, the age you started having sex, and how you prevent pregnancy/sexually transmitted diseases is all relevant information you should tell your gyno. Ladies, it’s also important to keep track of your menstrual cycle by recording your last period, the length of your periods, how heavy and frequent they are, and if you experience any period-related problems like cramps. Dr. Sara Mornar , obstetrician and gynecologist in Texas, tells Medical Daily women should be prepared to share their medical background and menstrual and contraceptive information with their doctor.

To Shave or Not to Shave?

The age-old question of whether to shave or not to shave your hoo-hah has crossed the minds of many women before their first gyno visit. Before you schedule a bikini wax, or run to the pharmacy to stock up on razors and shaving cream, it’s important to know there is no need to shave before seeing your gyno. Gynecologists do not expect their patients to shave their vulva since pubic hair is not as dense as the hair on the scalp, and it can easily be moved aside during the examination.

The only expectation your gyno has is to practice basic hygiene — take a shower or a bath within 24 hours . Women should not use spermicide, medications, lubricants, or douche a day before the exam because this could interfere with the accuracy of a Pap test. The night before the exam is not an ideal time to get busy between the sheets, either. Intercourse without a condom the night before a Pap smear may obscure cervical cells which then cannot be read accurately.

The Waiting Room

So you’ve made it this far and have managed to stir up the courage to bare your hoo-hah to your gyno for the very first time. The waiting room is similar to any visit at the doctors' where the receptionist will hand you a pile of forms to fill out. Questions range from the number of sexual partners you’ve had (if any) to the date of your last period. It’s important to answer these questions carefully and honestly so your gyno can accurately assess you and keep track of your health. This information stays confidential between your gyno and you.

Behind Closed Doors: The Exam Room

The most frightening part of your first gyno visit has arrived — going into the exam room. If you’re still nervous at this point, tell your nurses and doctors and let them know it’s your first time, so they can guide you step-by-step on the procedure. Like a regular doctor’s visit, the nurse will take your height, weight, and blood pressure.

After the basics, you will be left alone to change into a gown as you remove all your clothing – including your underwear. The doctor will shortly knock on your door and will ask you a series of questions ranging from if you’re sexually active to your periods and how long they last. Your gyno will even ask you if you want to have an STD or HIV/AIDs testing on the day of your first gyno exam, too.

Breast Exam

During a gyno exam, your doctor will ask you to lay back and check your breast and underarms for any lumps. According to Woman’s Hospital your gyno will check for breast abnormalities that include lumps, nipple discharge, and skin changes. Women should do breast self-exams regularly, and if you’re not sure how to do this, you can ask your gyno and he or she will show you how.

Pelvic Exam

After the breast exam comes the moment of truth for every woman — the pelvic exam. Your doctor will lay you on your back and gently press several areas of your lower stomach to see if you experience any discomfort prior to the exam. At the initial start of the exam, the dreaded instruments, the speculum and the spatula, will be used to examine your vagina. Mayo Clinic says the speculum — the plastic or metal-hinged instrument — will help spread open your vaginal walls so your gyno can view your vagina and cervix. If your pelvic exam includes a Pap test, your doctor will collect a sample of your cervical cells before removing the speculum. After this is removed, your gyno will examine your other pelvic organs for signs of abnormalities. After this the exam is officially done, you have survived your first gyno exam.

YOU Ask the Questions

Whether you choose to ask them before or after your exam, or when your gyno asks if you have any questions, it’s time to ask everything you’ve wanted to know from your periods to sex. A common misconception women have is that their gyno will judge them and therefore fear asking questions about birth control, STDs, and infidelities, among many others. However, Sylvestre says, “Again, any questions are okay: about your periods, sex, pain during sex, fear of your first intercourse, dildos, orgasm (or lack of), pregnancy, and abortion. Again, don't be shy, s/he heard it all.”

Like Sylvestre, Mornar recommends patients to ask their gynos: “Why are PAP smears necessary? How often do I need one? When do i need a mammogram? How do I prevent pregnancy and transmission of diseases? What is HPV, and do I need the vaccine for it?”

What Does Your First Gyno Visit Mean?

You’re finally done with the exam, and exit the clinic, but you may ask yourself: what does this first visit mean for your health? “The breast screening is looking for abnormalities such as lumps or masses,” Mornar said. She advises women to start getting Pap smears by the age of 21, and mammograms by the age of 40 and older, depending on family history.

Unlike the breast screening, the Pap exam can reveal signs of cervical cancer, ovarian cysts, fibroids in the uterus, and other possible reason for heavy periods. A clean bill of health at a gyno exam can signify that “her Pap is normal, that she has no STD, that her organs are fine,” Sylvestre said.

Women should have their first gynecological exam when they are 18 years old, but it is recommended earlier than 18 if they are sexually active or have a medical problem requiring a pelvic exam.

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When to See a Gynecologist for the First Time and What to Expect

Knowing when to see a gynecologist for the first time can be puzzling, but for young women, meeting with an OB-GYN earlier on can set you up for a strong foundation of reproductive health, well-being and open communication.

This article is based on reporting that features expert sources.

When to See an OB-GYN for the First Time

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Usually, parents take their child to a health care specialist due to an existing health concern. A pulmonologist follows their asthma, a psychiatrist manages ADHD or diabetes is overseen by their endocrinologist.

When it comes to a first gynecologist visit, it's crucial for women and young girls to proactively receive care as an integral part of their overall health and well-being.

What Age Should Girls First See an OB-GYN?

The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology recommends that girls establish care with an obstetrician-gynecologist, or OB-GYN, between the ages of 13 and 15.

Most girls get their first period between the ages of 10 to 16, and up to 42% of teenage girls become sexually active between ages 15 to 19. ACOG adds that adolescent girls may have a first gynecologist visit for any of the following reasons at any time:

• Have not had their period by 15 years of age.
• Heavy, irregular or painful periods.
• Puberty concerns, like acne or unwanted hair growth. 
• Sexually active.
• Questioning their gender identity.

Dr. Anne Smith, a pediatric and adolescent OB-GYN at Yale Medicine and assistant professor of obstetrics, gynecology and reproductive sciences at Yale School of Medicine, says, “The primary goal for seeing patients early is to provide preventative care.” Knowing what is normal and what is abnormal can also empower teenage girls, especially regarding puberty and menstruation.

“OB-GYNs can also have a focused discussion with teens about reproductive health, as well as healthy relationships, bone health and other lifestyle factors,” she adds.

Why See an OB-GYN Instead of a Primary Care Provider?

A primary care provider , or PCP, is a medical provider well-versed in typical health care conditions prevalent in the general population. PCPs are excellent at treating common health conditions, helping to coordinate care or recommending specialists.

So, if a teenage girl has a common concern, like a painful period, why should they see an OB-GYN rather than their PCP ? It is in the scope of a PCP to listen to these concerns and recommend a treatment plan. However, Smith suggests some adolescents could be more comfortable discussing their concerns with an OB-GYN.

“They have specialized training in these sensitive topics,” she explains.

Most teens are nervous about seeing an OB-GYN for the first time. Still, Smith explains that an OB-GYN can listen to the teen’s concerns, and they shouldn’t worry about invasive exams or procedures during their first visit.

What Happens at an Initial OB-GYN Visit?

During a first visit with an OB-GYN , the primary goal is to get to know the teenager and establish a trusting relationship.

A first gynecologist visit will often follow this structure:

• Gathering initial information.
• Checking on overall health.
• Discussing concerns.
• Conducting an assessment.

Gathering initial information 

This includes race and ethnicity, religious background, age and family structure, so the OB-GYN can be sensitive to any personal needs and preferences.

Checking on overall health 

A nurse or medical assistant will take vital signs, height, weight and last menstrual period. They will also ask if the purpose of the visit is to establish care, or if there are other health concerns.

Dr. Ashanda Saint Jean, the chair of obstetrics and gynecology at Health Alliance Hospitals Westchester Medical Center and a member of WMCHealth in Valhalla, New York, says, “At the first visit, a detailed history is obtained. Often, parents are quite useful in filling in the blanks of many early childhood medical conditions, hospitalizations, medical allergies and adverse reactions and past surgeries.“

Discussing concerns 

The provider will introduce themselves and spend some time understanding any prevalent concerns.

“Creating a safe space and opportunity to ground that experience in trust will strengthen a bond of trust and temper nerves,” Saint Jean explains.

Conducting an assessment

An assessment could be looking at acne, asking more in-depth questions about pelvic pain or discussing what to expect with physical development during puberty.

Dr. Andrea Braden, breastfeeding medicine specialist at Lybbie, a lactation innovation company, says, “Depending on the age and risk factors of the patient, bloodwork may also be drawn at a first visit as part of a preventive care workup. These blood tests can check for illnesses that require further treatment but may not be apparent on physical exam alone.”

Are you concerned about an unwanted pap smear or a pelvic exam? Pap smears are only recommended for women over age 21, regardless of when they become sexually active. Pelvic exams are only done on teenagers if it is medically necessary to address a specific concern, and only after their OB-GYN establishes trust and receives informed consent from their patient. Saint Jean adds that “patient-centered care is the bedrock of trust-promoting and fear, anxiety and stress reduction. This holds true for young teenage patients, as well.”

Patient Confidentiality at Teenage Gynecology Visits

Both parents and their teenage girls may have questions or concerns about their privacy and confidentiality. Parents want to ensure they are privy to their children’s health status, and teenagers may not want their parents to know about their sexual activity or gynecological concerns.

Rules on patient confidentiality in regard to sexual health differ in each state. The American Academy of Pediatrics says that these laws are highly variable and do not reflect any pediatric standards of care.

To check what the laws are in your state, visit your public health department website. There are differences in regulations with each of the following types of care:

• General medical care. 
• Immunizations, including the HPV vaccine.
• Sexual assault evaluations. 
• STI/ HIV testing and treatment. 
• Contraceptive care . 
• Prenatal care . 

“Given the sensitive nature of reproductive care, many young teenage patients rely on privacy and confidentiality when accessing these care pathways,” Saint Jeans says. “Honoring this patient/physician relationship contributes to building a bridge of trust with our young teenage patients, thus allowing an avenue to exist where care can be sought and delivered without the fear of divulgence and breach of confidentiality.”

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The U.S. News Health team delivers accurate information about health, nutrition and fitness, as well as in-depth medical condition guides. All of our stories rely on multiple, independent sources and experts in the field, such as medical doctors and licensed nutritionists. To learn more about how we keep our content accurate and trustworthy, read our  editorial guidelines .

Braden is a board-certified OB-GYN based in Atlanta and a breastfeeding medicine specialist at Lybbie, a lactation innovation company.

Saint Jean is the chair of obstetrics and gynecology at Health Alliance Hospitals Westchester Medical Center, a member of WMCHealth in New York.

Smith is a pediatric and adolescent obstetrician-gynecologist at Yale Medicine and assistant professor of obstetrics, gynecology and reproductive sciences at Yale School of Medicine in Connecticut.

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What Does a Gynecologist Do?

Wendy Wisner is freelance journalist and international board certified lactation consultant (IBCLC). She has written about all things pregnancy, maternal/child health, parenting, and general health and wellness.

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A gynecologist is a healthcare provider who primarily treats health concerns related to female sex organs and hormones. Gynecologists can diagnose and treat gynecological conditions like pelvic pain, pelvic prolapse, endometriosis, and urinary tract conditions. They may also offer guidance on sexual health, pregnancy planning, and infertility.

Gynecologists offer preventative care—such as pap smears, STI testing, and breast exams —all of which can identify issues related to reproductive health. Most gynecologists are trained as ob-gyns (obstetrician-gynecologists), meaning that they’ve been trained in both gynecological care and obstetric care. Obstetric care focuses on pregnancy and delivery. However, some ob-gyns practice as gynecologists only.

What Conditions Does a Gynecologist Diagnose and Treat?

A gynecologist can diagnose and treat many reproductive concerns, including infertility, STIs , vaginal infections, and abnormal bleeding between periods .

They also diagnose and treat conditions like:

• Pelvic masses or tumors: May be either benign or cancerous
• Pelvic organ prolapse: When pelvic floor muscles can’t adequately support pelvic organs, causing them to drop down, sometimes into the vagina
• Fibroids : Non-cancerous tumors in your uterus
• Polyps: Small, non-cancerous growths in your cervix or uterus
• Endometriosis : When tissue that is similar to the lining of the uterus (known as the endometrium) grows outside the uterus, such as on your fallopian tubes, ovaries, or pelvis
• Urinary incontinence : Leaking urine
• Breast conditions: For example, breast lumps or masses

Procedures a Gynecologist Performs

Gynecologists perform several standard and minor in-office procedures, including:

• Pelvic exam: Examining the vulva and reproductive organs.
• Pap smear : A cancer screening procedure that involves collecting cells from a person's cervix and sending them to a lab for testing.
• STI testing: Common tests include human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), syphilis, hepatitis B and hepatitis C, chlamydia, and gonorrhea.
• Colposcopy: A procedure to closely examine your cervix and vagina.
• Endometrial biopsy : Removing a small amount of tissue from the uterus and testing it for abnormalities.
• Vulvar or vaginal biopsy: Removing a small amount of tissue from the vulva or vagina and testing it for infections or abnormal masses.

Some gynecologists may perform other in-office or outpatient gynecologic procedures, such as:

• Laser surgery: To treat conditions like endometriosis and urinary incontinence
• Laparoscopy: Making a small incision (cut) in the lower abdomen and inserting a laparoscope with a light and a small camera to see the inside of the pelvic region (to diagnose or treat conditions)
• Tubal ligation ("tube tying"): Cutting, tying, or blocking the fallopian tubes to prevent future pregnancies
• Hysterectomy : Removal of the uterus
• Endometrial ablation: Removing the endometrium (uterus lining) to reduce heavy menstrual bleeding

Types of Gynecologists

Gynecologists may receive further training and become subspecialists within their field. Subspecialties usually require an additional certification exam. They're official board specialties, meaning they're recognized by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG). Examples include:

• Gynecologic Oncology: Treatment of reproductive cancers, like ovarian cancer
• Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery : Treatment of pelvic floor disorders
• Maternal-Fetal Medicine: Treatment of high-risk pregnancies
• Critical Care Medicine: Diagnosis and treatment of serious conditions and injuries
• Complex Family Planning (CFP): Includes contraception and pregnancy termination services
• Hospice and Palliative Medicine: Managing symptoms and improving quality of life for people with advanced or progressive conditions

Going to the Gynecologist

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that people assigned female at birth start visiting a gynecologist between age 13-15. ACOG recommends a yearly “well-woman” visit to discuss questions and concerns and to perform basic exams and screenings.

Pap smears are no longer performed yearly. You'll receive them at different intervals based on your age:

• 21 -29: A pap smear every three years
• 30-65: A pap smear and HPV test every five years, or a pap smear alone every three years
• Over 65: No pap smears needed as long as you’ve never had an abnormal pap smear or cervical cancer

Preventative screenings and pap smears aren’t the only reasons to visit a gynecologist. For example, you might want STI testing or screening or be experiencing pelvic or uterine pain. Other possible reasons include:

• Unusual vaginal discharge or itching
• Menstrual cycle concerns
• Signs of an infection (e.g., a yeast infection )
• Abnormal bleeding
• Sexual concerns

What To Expect When Visiting a Gynecologist

Visiting a gynecologist can feel stressful, especially if this is your first time with the provider. You may not know what to expect, and you may be anxious or embarrassed about possible topics or exams.

Gynecologists have heard it all and seen it all when it comes to the reproductive system, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll feel at ease. That’s why it’s helpful to know what to expect during your visit so that you can prepare yourself mentally and emotionally.

Here are some things you will likely discuss with the provider:

• Medical history, including past symptoms and conditions
• Family medical history
• Lifestyle habits, including eating, exercise, and alcohol and drug use
• Past pregnancies and whether you have children
• Job and intimate relationships
• Reproductive health concerns, such as abnormal vaginal discharge, abnormal bleeding, pain, or menstrual cycle
• Topics such as birth control, pregnancy planning , menopause, and healthy lifestyle choices

The gynecologist might perform a physical exam which may include a pelvic exam, pap smear, or breast exam. They may also discuss vaccinations, and other necessary medical screenings for your overall health and well-being.

How To Prepare for a Visit to a Gynecologist

As you prepare for your visit to a gynecologist, it can be helpful to jot down any questions you might have beforehand. Write down your current medications, and bring insurance cards for billing purposes.

The Affordable Care Act of 2010 requires insurance companies to pay for preventative visits to gynecologists. This includes well-woman visits, STD testing, and pap smears. However, some services may not be covered. They may require copays or apply to your deductible. Contact your insurance company if you have questions about coverage before any upcoming visits.

A Quick Review

A gynecologist is a healthcare provider who helps diagnose, treat, and manage reproductive health conditions. Gynecologists perform basic preventive screening, such as pap smears and breast exams. They can also treat reproductive conditions like abnormal bleeding, endometriosis, vaginal infections, and fibroids.

Contact your primary care physician if you need a referral to a gynecologist, and don't be afraid to look for another provider if it doesn't feel like a good fit. It's important to feel comfortable with your gynecologist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Most gynecologists are ob-gyns, meaning that they have training in both gynecology and obstetrics (pregnancy and childbirth ). As such, gynecologists receive some of the same training as certified midwives. However, unlike midwives, gynecologists are usually MDs and have more extensive training. Midwives focus on uncomplicated gynecologic and obstetric matters, whereas gynecologists can treat more high-risk patients.

Most gynecologists are ob-gyns, meaning that they have been trained in both gynecology and obstetrics. However, gynecologists focus their practice on reproductive health , which doesn't include pregnancy and childbirth.

Gynecologists must have basic college degrees and attend medical school. This is usually followed by a residency and fellowship. Finally, gynecologists have to take and pass a certifying exam given by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG).

American College of Surgeons. Obstetrics and gynecology .

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American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Specialty (OB GYN) certification overview .

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Your first gynecologic visit .

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Bialy A, Kondagari L, Wray AA. Gynecologic examination . In: StatPearls . StatPearls Publishing; 2023.

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American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Well-woman visit .

MedlinePlus. Choosing the right health care provider for pregnancy and childbirth .

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A Complete Guide to Your First Gynecologist Visit

You’ve probably heard stories about a first gynecologist visit .

Maybe these were told by well-meaning friends or perhaps you saw these stories on the internet.

We want you to know that some of these stories may not be true. We’re here to set the record straight.

It’s perfectly normal to be a bit nervous or embarrassed about your first visit to the gynecologis t. That’s okay. But we want you to understand that there’s no reason to feel anxious.

We’ll guide you through your OBGYN annual exam so you’ll know what to expect.

If you’re a parent, you may want to bookmark this blog and show it to your daughter to help you discuss her first appointment.

Your First OBGYN Annual Exam: All You Need to Know About the Gynecologist

When should you first visit a gynecologist.

We recommend that you should have your first gynecologist visit when you’re between the ages of 13 and 17.

If you’re feeling a bit worried about your visit, please let us know. We promise we’ll put you at ease and explain everything that we are doing to help keep you healthy.

What Does A Gynecologist Do On Your First Visit?

Sometimes, on the first visit, we just want to talk to you about your health and what to expect at future appointments. Often, this does not involve a pelvic exam.

But if you have health problems—such as very painful or heavy periods   —you may need certain tests.

One thing is for sure: we’ll ask a lot of questions! This is how we get to know you so we can help you. You may find a few of these questions embarrassing or hard to talk about. We’ll discuss your period or whether or not you’re having sex. Being honest is important.

Don’t worry about your parent being in the room with you. We typically ask parents to wait outside for at least part of the time while we’re asking you these personal questions.

We’ll make sure the information remains confidential—but we encourage you to discuss these health issues with your parent.

It will help us if you can tell us the date of your last period and how old you were when you had your first period. We may also ask questions such as:

• Do you have irregular periods?
• How bad are your period cramps?
• Do you have any uncomfortable itching?
• Are you having sex?
• If you are having sex, do you use condoms? Are you using another form of birth control?

It may surprise you to know that gynecologists care about your whole health—not just what’s going on “down there.” If you’re depressed, have difficulty losing weight or have sleep problems, tell us about it!

What Type of Exams Will I Need to Have?

We’ll give you a general physical exam. This means we’ll check your blood pressure, your heart rate, your weight and we may need to take some blood for a blood test. This will help us see if you have diseases such as prediabetes.

If you are having sex, we may give you a test for sexually transmitted infections. We know it may be difficult to talk with us about sex, but that’s a part of our job.

You should never be embarrassed to talk to us. In fact, your sexual health is very important.

Remember that we talk with hundreds of women every year about their sex lives. There’s no reason to be worried. We understand.

We’ll also do an external genital exam. This means we’ll look at the area around your vagina—called your vulva .

We may also perform a bimanual exam. During this exam, we’ll place two lubricated fingers into your vagina. With the other hand, we’ll check your abdomen. This enables us to feel your uterus and ovaries. It’s a way we can check for growths or cysts.

While this may be uncomfortable, it shouldn’t hurt. If you’re worried about it, please talk to us.

We want to answer all your questions. It’s important to us that your first gynecological appointment is a positive experience.

Will I Have a Pap Smear?

Typically, we don’t perform Pap smears unless you’re 21 or older. But if you’ve had some problems—such as heavy periods, pain or itching– we will need to check things out to determine the cause.

What Happens During a Pap Smear?

During a Pap smear, we gently insert something called a speculum into your vagina. This allows us to hold your vaginal walls apart so we can get a good look at your cervix.

Your cervix is between your uterus and vagina.

Then, we use a small brush and tiny spatula to get cells from your cervix. We examine these cells under a microscope.

Does a Pap Smear Hurt?

We admit, it’s not the most comfortable test, but it shouldn’t hurt. If you feel any pain or discomfort, let us know.

How Do I Prepare for My First Gyno Appointment?

It’s really easy to prepare for your first gynecologist appointment. Be sure to schedule your exam in the middle of your cycle. We want to be sure you’re not having your period during the exam.

If you have irregular periods, that’s something you should mention during your appointment.

For two days before your exam, you should NOT:

• Use powders or creams
• Use tampons or put anything into your vagina

It also helps to think about what questions you’d like to ask us.

Do I Need to Shave “Down There?”

Whether or not you shave is totally up to you. It’s your choice and it won’t affect your exam at all. It really doesn’t matter to us how you trim your pubic hair or even if you shave it at all.

Associates in Women’s Healthcare: Always Here for You

We don’t just want to see you at your first exam. We want to see you every year. This is how we take care of you.

We place your needs first. We call this being a partner in your care.

If you ever have any questions, feel free to talk to our doctors. We also want you to have honest conversations with your parents about your health.

Your parents can contact us for an appointment.

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Well-Woman Visits

(gynecologic preventive care).

• Pelvic Examination |
• Breast Examination |
• Psychosocial Screening and Counseling |

Periodic well-woman visits may be provided by a gynecologist, other women's health clinician, or primary care clinician.

Recommendations vary regarding the frequency of primary care or gynecologic preventive care visits. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends well-woman visits every year for all women who are sexually active or > 18 years. The ACOG recommends that these visits include screening, evaluation, counseling, and immunizations based on age and risk factors.

Well-woman visits should include taking a comprehensive medical history, including current symptoms or concerns as well as medical, surgical, gynecologic , obstetric, family, and social history, as well as medications and allergies. Although these visits are typically called "well-woman" visits, taking a gynecologic history may also be relevant for patients who are gender diverse ( 1 ).

During a well-woman visit, patients may be screened for or counseled about

Breast cancer

Cervical cancer

Sexually transmitted infections

Contraception

Preconception care

Perimenopause and menopause

Depending on history of vaccination for human papillomavirus (HPV) and age of the patient, HPV vaccination should be offered. People who are not infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) but are at high risk (eg, having a partner who is living with HIV, high-risk sexual behaviors, or illicit injection drug use) should be counseled about and offered preexposure prophylaxis with antiretrovirals (PrEP) , if appropriate ( 2 ).

General health screening and counseling, such as for diabetes , hypertension , or dyslipidemia and other topics, and to encourage a healthy diet and physical activity, are addressed as part of a well-woman visit by primary care clinicians and some gynecologists.

Pelvic Examination

The decision to perform a pelvic examination should be a shared decision between the patient and clinician ( 3 ). Pelvic examinations may be performed if indicated based on symptoms, as part of routine preventive care screening, or if a woman expresses a preference for the examination after reviewing the risks and benefits. There are inadequate data to support recommendations for or against performing a routine screening pelvic examination among asymptomatic nonpregnant patients who are not at increased risk of any specific gynecologic disease (eg, ovarian cancer, uterine cancer) ( 4 ). Also, pelvic examination is not indicated for initiation or renewal of contraception, except for an intrauterine device .

Women with risk factors for gynecologic cancer (eg, history of cervical dysplasia, in-utero exposure to diethylstilbestrol [DES], or prior gynecologic malignancy) may require more frequent screening and should be managed according to current guidelines.

Breast Examination

Like the pelvic examination, the decision to perform a breast examination should be a shared decision between the patient and clinician and performed when indicated by medical history or symptoms or if the patient expresses a preference for the examination ( 5 ).

Psychosocial Screening and Counseling

Assessment and counseling should be provided regarding

Intimate partner violence

Mental health

Substance use, including alcohol misuse and smoking cessation

All patients should be asked about domestic violence, including intimate partner violence , at their initial primary care or gynecologic or obstetric visit (and again at regular intervals) ( 6 ). Methods include self-administered questionnaires and a directed interview by a clinician. In patients who do not report they are experiencing abuse, findings that suggest current or past abuse include the following:

Frequent emergency department visits

Delay in seeking treatment for injuries

Inconsistent explanations for injuries

Head and neck injuries

Chronic unexplained abdominal pain or headaches

Psychiatric symptoms

Frequent sexually transmitted infections

Prior delivery of a low-birth-weight infant ( 7 )

Older adults with evidence of neglect or physical injury

1. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists’ Committee on Gynecologic Practice : Opinion No. 823: Health care for transgender and gender diverse individuals. Obstet Gynecol 137 (3):e75–e88, 2021. doi: 10.1097/AOG.0000000000004294

2. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists  (ACOG) : ACOG Practice Advisory: Preexposure Prophylaxis for the Prevention of Human Immunodeficiency Virus, June 2022

3. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists’ Committee on Gynecologic Practice : Opinion No. 754: The utility of and indications for routine pelvic examination. Obstet Gynecol 132 (4):e174–e180, 2018 (reaffirmed 2020). doi: 10.1097/AOG.0000000000002895

4. US Preventive Services Task Force, Bibbins-Domingo K, Grossman DC, et al : Gynecological Conditions: Periodic Screening With the Pelvic Examination. March, 2017

5. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists’ Committee on Gynecologic Practice : Practice Bulletin Number 179: Breast Cancer Risk Assessment and Screening in Average-Risk Women.  Obstet Gynecol . 2017 (reaffirmed 2021);130(1):e1-e16. doi:10.1097/AOG.0000000000002158

6. Feltner C, Wallace I, Berkman N, et al . Screening for Intimate Partner Violence, Elder Abuse, and Abuse of Vulnerable Adults: An Evidence Review for the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force [Internet]. Rockville (MD): Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (US); 2018 Oct. (Evidence Synthesis, No. 169.) Appendix F Table 1, IPV Screening Instruments. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK533715/table/appf.tab1/

7. Laelago T, Belachew T, Tamrat M . Effect of intimate partner violence on birth outcomes.  Afr Health Sci . 2017;17(3):681-689. doi:10.4314/ahs.v17i3.10

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10 Things to Know Before Your First Gyno Exam

By Kristin Canning

If you have a vagina , there will come a time when you have to see a gynecologist —it’s an essential part of maintaining your health. But that first gyno exam can seem totally foreign—and even scary. The thought of discussing sensitive health topics and letting a total stranger examine your vagina might make you want to skip the appointment altogether.

But here’s the thing: Seeing an ob/gyn doesn’t have to be intimidating or uncomfortable; in fact, it can even be pretty damn empowering. Below, you’ll find exactly what you can expect from your first ob/gyn appointment—including how to best prep for it, how to stay calm when you’re feeling uneasy, and how to leave feeling confident about your sexual and reproductive health.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends girls have their first ob/gyn appointment between the ages of 13 and 15, with a yearly wellness visit after that. You might have specific things to bring up with your doctor during your first appointment, like period issues, birth control options, and testing for sexually transmitted infections .

It’s smart to be clear about why you’re seeing the ob/gyn, Lauren Streicher, M.D. , associate professor of obstetrics and gynecologist at Northwestern University and author of Sex Rx: Hormones, Health, and Your Best Sex Ever , tells SELF. That way, you can make sure to discuss everything on your mind and be a better advocate for yourself. “For a new patient, most doctors will schedule 20 to 30 minutes,” says Dr. Streicher. “If you prepare before you get there, you can maximize your time and get your questions answered.” Plus, preparing can help you combat pre-exam nerves.

Regardless of your age, a medical professional will do a general physical exam to check your height, weight, and blood pressure before an ob/gyn checks you out.

Your doctor typically won’t perform a pelvic exam to check out your reproductive organs during your first ob/gyn visit. The exception is if you’re sexually active, want STI testing, or have other health concerns like abnormal bleeding or very painful periods .

If you’re 21 or older, however, a pelvic exam is recommended, along with a Pap test . During a Pap test, your doctor will swab your cervix (the lower portion of your uterus that connects to your vagina) to collect a sample of cervical cells to check for abnormalities that could indicate cervical cancer (which is rare and often treatable, so try not to stress!).

Your ob/gyn may also perform a breast exam. Even though young women have a low breast-cancer risk, your doctor will likely use this as an opportunity to show you how to examine your breasts and identify any changes, says Dr. Streicher.

A typical pelvic exam consists of three parts, according to the ACOG. The first is an external genital exam to look at your vulva, which includes everything you can see on the outside of your body, like your labia, clitoris, and the opening of your vagina. If your doctor offers you a mirror so you can see what’s up down there—or if you want to request one—don’t be shy! An ob/gyn visit is the perfect time to make sure you know the name, location, and purpose of all the parts of your vulva.

By Julia Ries

By Julia Sullivan

Your doctor will also perform a vaginal and cervical exam with a speculum, which is a device they’ll insert into your vagina and expand to get a better view of your vaginal walls and cervix. While the speculum is inserted, your doctor will use a soft brush or a flat scraping device to take samples for your Pap test and to test for certain STIs.

Real talk: This part can be kind of weird. “Most people are uncomfortable with the speculum,” Mary Jane Minkin, M.D., professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Yale School of Medicine and creator of MadameOvary.com , tells SELF. Pro tip: Speculums come in different sizes, so if you’re worried about it hurting, you can let your doctor know and ask them to try something smaller. “And if you feel pinching or pain, you can say something,” says Dr. Streicher. The good part is that a speculum only needs to be in your vagina for around a minute for a doctor to perform a thorough exam, William Schweizer, M.D. , clinical associate professor of obstetrics and gynecology at New York University Langone Health, tells SELF.

Once that’s done, your doctor will conduct a bimanual exam to study your reproductive organs. With a hand on your lower abdomen, they’ll insert one or two of their gloved, lubricated fingers into your vagina and feel around to make sure your uterus and ovaries are healthy. This is another part that can make people anxious, but it also only takes around a minute, Dr. Schweizer says.

Most doctors don’t require a pelvic exam to prescribe birth control —they’re able to make an informed decision based on your medical history and personal habits. If you’re curious about birth control options, they’ll start by asking questions about your behavior and preferences to help figure out what’s best for you. For example, pills might not be a great option if you know you’re super forgetful, Dr. Minkin says, so your doctor may recommend a “set it and forget it” method like an IUD or an implant that can last anywhere from 3 to 10 years, depending on the type. For some methods, you can usually walk out of the office with a prescription that day.

Though you might feel exposed during your first gyno exam, remember that your doc isn’t judging any aspect of your body, whether it’s your pubic hair or the length of your labia. Their purpose is to evaluate you medically, full stop. “We really don’t care, we’ve seen it all, and honestly, we barely notice,” says Dr. Streicher. If you’re able to, you can shower and rinse your labia with water before an appointment (no douching or perfume, though, because that can boost your risk of irritation or infection). If you can’t do this, it’s so not a big deal.

You also don’t need to worry about being on your period unless you’re specifically going to have your doctor examine your discharge, adds Dr. Streicher. Having your period may also affect the results of your Pap test or any STI testing, so you should give your doctor’s office a call to see if it still makes sense to come in or if you should postpone your appointment.

You’ll need to know the first day of your last period , so make sure you’re keeping track of that in the month leading up to your exam. You should also mention any pain, cramps, heavy bleeding, irregularity, or mood changes you get with your period. Your ob/gyn can prescribe birth control to help with period symptoms or look for signs of conditions like endometriosis , a condition that can cause pain, heavy periods, and trouble getting pregnant.

Your doctor will also ask about your sexual activity. Don’t be afraid to be open and honest here—your ob/gyn will keep everything confidential and won’t judge you. “It’s their job to support you. You have to answer honestly because STI screening will be based on that,” says Dr. Schweizer. Keep in mind that your oral sex and anal sex history count here, too, as both can lead to STIs. If you’re worried you might be pregnant because you’re sexually active and you’ve missed a period, be honest about that, too, and ask your doctor for a pregnancy test.

Your doctor will ask you about any medical conditions you have, medications you’re on, and past surgeries. That stuff can be hard to remember, especially when you’re nervous, so it can help to write everything down beforehand, says Dr. Streicher. That includes any relevant dates.

They’ll also want to know your family’s medical history. “It’s especially helpful to know about your mom’s health history and any family history of blood clots, as that can inform what birth control methods are best for you,” says Dr. Minkin. Contraception that contains estrogen, like the combined hormonal birth control pill, may put users at a higher risk of blood clots, according to the Mayo Clinic. The risk is still really small overall, but there are options that pose less of a risk if you have a personal or family history of blood clots, like the arm implant, an IUD, and progestin-only pills.

Also, if you haven’t gotten your vaccine for human papillomavirus (HPV), now’s the time to ask about that. The vaccine protects against cancers caused by an HPV infection, including cancers of the cervix, vagina, and vulva, as well as cancers of the anus, back of the throat, and penis.

That starts from before you even arrive. You may find you’re more at ease talking to and being examined by either a male or female ob/gyn . It’s OK to research different medical practitioners in your area and choose based on who you think you’d feel most comfortable with. (Of course, you might be limited due to your insurance or one of your parent’s preferences, but it’s perfectly fine to do your best to choose who you’re going to see.)

Then, if you are anxious when you arrive or at any time in your appointment, tell your doctor, says Dr. Schweizer. “Let them know it’s your first time and you’re nervous. You can ask to have a nurse come hold your hand, or you can even bring in headphones and music if that helps.” If your doctor’s OK with it, you can also bring someone into the room with you—like a close friend or parent—if you need a little extra support, says Dr. Minkin.

You can even keep an eye on what the doctor is doing to ease your anxiety: “Sometimes it helps to see what the doctor is doing, so I offer to hold up a mirror if patients want to see what’s going on. And if you want to be told what I’m doing, step-by-step, I will,” says Dr. Schweizer. “It’s the doctor’s job to make you feel comfortable.”

If you got any tests done during your appointment, your doctor’s office may call to inform you of the results, or ask you to come in to review results or be retested. If you have STI testing, the results may be ready in a day to two weeks, says Dr. Minkin, and Pap test results typically come in one to two weeks.

Some offices won’t call you if your tests don’t show anything unusual, though, so be sure to clarify what you can expect before you leave your appointment. You can also sign off to have someone else, like a parent or close relative, get your test results if you’re super nervous.

Current guidelines only call for an pelvic exam every three years, though your doctor may suggest you get them more frequently, depending on your medical history or any health issues. But most women will go for a yearly wellness visit to renew their birth control prescription, have their well-woman visit, get STI testing, or check in on any other sexual health concerns they have. It’s especially important to get regular STI testing if you have new sex partners or if you’re having unprotected sex, says Dr. Minkin. Sometimes it’s difficult to get an appointment on an ob/gyn’s calendar, so it can be helpful to schedule your next appointment before you head out.

• Ob/Gyns Explain That Stuff in Your Underwear at the End of the Day
• 11 Vaginal Health Tips Ob/Gyns Actually Give Their Patients
• Is There Actually Any Way to Prevent Urinary Tract Infections?

SELF does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Any information published on this website or by this brand is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional.

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Concerned about your OB-GYN visit? A guide to what should happen — and what shouldn’t.

This article was originally published by ProPublica . Sign up for The Big Story newsletter to receive stories like this one in your inbox.

When health care workers sexually abuse their patients in Utah, survivors confront obstacles to justice: in the law, in the courts — and in the culture as a whole.

As journalists, we often talk to people about difficult things. We listen for themes and systemic issues that tie their stories together. Both of us have spent years hearing from those who say they were sexually assaulted — most recently dozens of women who told us about alleged misconduct by their Utah OB-GYN . These are not easy conversations to have, but they are important. They also teach us a lot about what women knew at the time of their appointments and what they wish they had known.

“I wish I would have known that I could speak up, say that I am uncomfortable or just ask him to stop,” said Ashton Sorenson, who is one of more than 100 women who have come forward in various lawsuits to accuse the OB-GYN of sexual assault. “I wish I knew that I could ask for a nurse to be present. I wish I could have known that I could challenge and question a doctor even though he was in an authority position.” The doctor’s lawyer has declined an interview request but has said they believe the allegations “are without merit.” Next month, the Utah Supreme Court is set to hear an appeal in a civil case brought by his patients.

Some told us they knew right away that the way their OB-GYN had touched them during their exam felt wrong — but they pushed off that gut feeling because he was a doctor or they were new to pelvic exams. Others thought the pain they felt during and following those exams was normal. Many women only started to characterize their experience as sexual assault after reading and hearing stories from other women who made similar claims.

In another recent story, women who saw an OB-GYN in New York City over decades related a similar pattern of disbelief and reckoning after he sexually assaulted them during exams — and a sense, as one victim said, that “I’m alone here.” When one survivor, Evelyn Yang, began to realize she was not the only one, she turned to Google to search for the doctor. “The next thing she put into the search bar,” ProPublica fellow Bianca Fortis and co-reporter Laura Beil wrote, “was ‘What to do if you’re assaulted by your doctor.’” (The doctor is now serving 20 years in prison for his actions.)

We want to help fill this information gap. We went to experts including an OB-GYN, a medical ethics professor and researcher, plus several of the patients in Utah who sued their doctor for sexual assault. We asked them to answer key questions that could help others interpret what is normal, and what’s not, during a visit to the OB-GYN.

To be clear, a victim is never at fault for sexual abuse. This guide does not provide medical or legal advice, and we encourage you to seek out other reliable resources and consult with people you trust.

What to Expect at Your Gynecologist’s Office

Your first meeting with your doctor should be about getting to know each other and building trust, according to Dr. Kavita Arora, an OB-GYN with the University of North Carolina’s Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and the former chair of the national ethics committee for American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. You may talk about your overall physical and mental well-being and any history of women’s health issues in your family.

Typically, you will meet with a nurse or medical assistant before the gynecologist enters the room. The nurse will likely check your weight and blood pressure and ask general questions.

“The important thing is that everyone be on the same page before the exam,” Arora said.

At an OB-GYN visit, Arora said, you should always:

• Know who is going to be doing the exam.
• Know who else will be in the room.
• Know what parts of your body they plan to examine.

She said that information can help you decide what you are and are not comfortable with, and give you an opportunity to speak up. You can continue to ask questions throughout the visit and exam.

You can ask:

• What are the goals for today’s visit?
• Which exams are we going to do and why?
• What is the best way to let you know if I’m uncomfortable?
• Can I have a friend or family member in the room for an exam?
• How should I contact you with follow up questions? Do you prefer calls, texts, email or a patient portal?

What You Can Do if You Feel Uncomfortable During an OB-GYN Visit

If you have a question or something feels off, the medical experts and patients we talked to said it’s OK to ask the OB-GYN to stop no matter where you are in the process of the exam or the visit.

When in doubt, trust what you feel, said James M. DuBois , the director of the Bioethics Research Center at Washington University in St. Louis. “People are much better at recognizing what’s odd [or] what makes them feel uncomfortable than recognizing, ‘Oh, this meets the definition of sexual abuse.’”

If you are uncomfortable, in pain or confused about what is happening, Arora suggested saying:

• “Can you please stop?”
• “Let’s talk about this.”
• “Can you explain why we’re doing this?”

“It’s better to simply ask to stop and then give the OB-GYN the ability to answer that question,” Arora said. “At the end of the day, if the patient says stop, the clinician needs to stop.”

The experts and patients we’ve talked to said: If you are uncomfortable, take it seriously.

“If you feel something isn’t quite right, then go with your gut!” said Jackie Colton, who is among the 94 women who sued an OB-GYN in Utah.

How often does sexual misconduct happen in medicine?

DuBois says no one knows how often sexual misconduct happens in medicine. Official records only include cases people report, and research shows there are many reasons patients and providers choose not to tell officials.

To learn more about a specific physician, DuBois and his team put together a set of resources patients can use to look up their doctors and see if there have been complaints in the past.

What ethics codes are in place for doctors?

The medical profession follows a range of ethics codes established in part by medical schools, membership associations and hospital systems. The Hippocratic oath is a commonly known pledge that defines the core values for the profession. Among the many values the oath inspires, a doctor vows to respect the anatomy and dignity of their patients.

Every state has a law called a Medical Practice Act laying out what is and isn’t considered professional.

What is considered sexual misconduct by an OB-GYN?

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists is the lead professional organization for OB-GYNs in the U.S. It provides guidance and recommendations for care and patient interaction. ACOG’s Committee on Ethics defines sexual misconduct as “an abuse of power and a violation of patients’ trust.”

The Federation of State Medical Boards put out guidelines to define what counts as inappropriate behavior. Some examples include:

• Making inappropriate comments about a patient’s body.
• Joking about a patient’s sexual orientation.
• Watching a patient undress.
• Performing an intimate exam without a valid medical reason.
• Inviting medical students into the room during an exam without asking the patient for permission.
• Bringing up the physician’s own sexual likes or dislikes.
• Unwanted touching or fondling.
• Asking the patient to masturbate. 

Physicians may not participate in any kind of romantic or sexual relationship with a current patient, even if the patient appears to initiate or agree to it. The Federation of State Medical Boards says this is because physician misconduct often begins with manipulation tactics called “grooming” behaviors. Even if comments may not meet the definition of misconduct at first, anything that eventually escalates to sexual contact is considered unethical.

ACOG’s Committee on Ethics explains : “Such interactions may exploit patients’ vulnerability, compromise physicians’ ability to make objective judgments about patients’ health care, and ultimately be detrimental to patients’ long-term health.”

What to Do if You Think Your OB-GYN Has Acted Inappropriately

Talk with someone you trust..

Adhis Boucha, who is among the 94 women who sued their former OB-GYN in Utah, suggested talking with someone as soon as possible. “You don’t need to be embarrassed by something that was someone else’s fault,” she said.

If you’re not sure where to start, you can speak with someone who is trained to help at the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-656-HOPE (4673) or chat online at online.rainn.org .

Many hospitals work with patient advocates who can guide you through their institution’s code of ethics and suggest practical next steps. If your hospital or health care facility does not work with patient advocates, the Patient Advocate Foundation may be able to connect you with support.

Take notes and save records.

If you suspect that something went wrong during your visit, DuBois suggests telling someone else, such as a family member or spouse. He also recommends keeping notes.

Though it can be difficult for some patients, DuBois said, “courts trust memories more when they are documented soon after the event with names and dates.”

Keeping other records, such as medical documents, bills and emails may also help in making a report.

You have options when reporting sexual misconduct by an OB-GYN.

If you decide to take further action, there are a few options to report sexual misconduct by a doctor.

• State medical boards give doctors a license to practice and punish physicians who break the rules. According to the Federation of State Medical Boards , the committees are usually made up of volunteer doctors, other health care providers and members of the public appointed by the governor. You can find your local medical board’s contact information here . If the board finds that a doctor has behaved inappropriately, it can take away a physician’s license to practice, impose fines or put them on administrative probation. In many states, a medical board is not required to forward a complaint to law enforcement, meaning police won’t automatically be involved. You may want to ask your state’s medical board about whether it is a mandatory reporter to the police.
• Law enforcement can investigate allegations of sexual abuse. This is typically done by local police. A police detective may ask you to describe what happened more than once. If they find enough evidence, there may be a trial and you may be asked to testify . If the physician is found guilty in a criminal court, they could be ordered to pay fines or sent to jail or prison.

What if I Want to Report an Incident That Happened Long Ago?

Some states have a limited amount of time to bring charges and prosecute a physician. These are called the statute of limitations. RAINN , a national anti-sexual-violence organization, put together a guide to help people understand the rules. As the guide puts it: “You can think of a statute of limitations like a timer: the clock typically starts when the crime occurs; after time runs out, a perpetrator cannot be charged for the crime.”

You can use RAINN’s state law database to find out what the statute of limitations are in your state.

If the statute of limitations has passed in your case, RAINN says you may still file a police report . According to the organization, for some survivors making a report is an important step in regaining control over their lives. Your report could also be informational for police or prosecutors if other people come forward with similar allegations.

OB-GYN Glossary

Undressing from the waist down or fully is common for general exams. The doctor’s office should provide you with a gown or sheet to wear. Staffers should give you time to change before and after the exam. The doctor should only ask that you expose the area relevant to the exam. They should also ask for your consent when draping or lifting your gown or sheet during the exam.

Chaperones are health care professionals who have been trained to be in the exam room as observers during a patient’s gynecological exam. They are there to take notes about the meeting, to enforce boundaries between the doctor and the patient and to make sure body parts are appropriately covered. If they witness misconduct, they know how to report it.

A chaperone’s role is to act as a witness in case of wrongdoing for both the patient and the health professional during a procedure. Generally, partners, family members and friends of patients should not serve as chaperones, but they can stay in the room during the visit if the doctor and the patient agree.

ACOG recommends having a chaperone in the room for sensitive procedures such as breast, pelvic or rectal exams.

A gynecologist is expected to wear gloves anytime they will be in contact with blood, bodily fluids, bodily tissues or mucus. Not all clinicians use gloves for breast exams or abdominal exams, though many do.

Gynecologists are expected to wear gloves for all genital and rectal exams. Arora said patients can always ask a doctor to put on gloves. “The physician should respect that request,” she said.

Pelvic Exam

A pelvic exam is a routine procedure used to check for signs of disease in female organs. The provider will check the vagina, uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes and cervix. The exam happens while you lie down on the exam table with your legs raised in footrests or stirrups.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, pelvic exams typically only take a few minutes . Doctors say you can expect to feel a little discomfort, but you should not experience severe pain.

Pap smears are a screening tool for cervical cancer, potential cervix cancer and human papillomavirus , a common sexually transmitted infection. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the screening involves “a gentle scrape” of the cervix for cell samples, which are then sent to a lab for examination. Doctors say Pap smears should not hurt.

Breast Exam

Breast exams can be part of a routine gynecological check up. Doctors use their fingers to check the breasts and under arms for changes in lumps, dimples or redness of the skin. They will look for changes in size and shape.

Rectal Exam

Rectal exams are no longer recommended for routine gynecological appointments. Arora shared a few exceptions.

Rectal exams “can help with examining the uterus or the ovaries depending on that patient’s anatomy,” she said. “If I’m worried about endometriosis, it can be relevant.”

To do this exam, a doctor inserts a finger into a person’s anus. Their hands should be gloved and their finger should be lubricated for this exam. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the process may feel uncomfortable but should not hurt or last for very long.

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