A visit to the OB-GYNE

Women should undergo an annual check-up when they hit their early 20s or become sexually active, whichever comes earlier. Here are the different exams you may undergo:

1. ABDOMINAL EXAM: The doctor feels your stomach for suspicious bumps using her hands.

2. PELVIC EXAM: The doctor places your feet on stirrups at the foot of the bed, with your back slightly tilted and knees up so she can examine your vulva (external vagina) closely for any unusual lesions, wounds and odor.

3. ANAL EXAM: The doctor examines your anus (rectum) to see if there are any tears or lacerations, which are particularly dangerous because bacteria from feces can easily invade the body and cause infections.

4. INTERNAL EXAM: If the patient being examined is no longer a virgin, the doctor inspects the vagina for any abnormalities. Once again: RELAX. A pap smear may be done using a special wand or cotton swab to gather a sample of your cervical ( the "mouth" of the uterus connected to the vagina) cells. These are tested for any changes in the cells that could signal cancer or STDs. When the patient is a virgin, there's no internal exam (referring to the insertion of an instrument called a speculum into the vagina).

5. BREAST EXAM: Your doctor feels for nay lumps or changes in the chest and surrounding areas. Ask her to teach you how to do a breast self-exam (BSE) so you can detect any abnormalities in between visits. Breast exam should be done monthly.

6. LABORATORY EXAMS: Aside from physical exams, you may also be tested for specific conditions or complaints, like a complete blood count, urinalysis, VDRL (venereal disease research laboratory) test, as well as tests for various STDs such as Hepatitis B, HPV (Human papillomavirus), Genital Herpes, Syphilis, Gonorrhea and HIV/AIDS.

After the exams have been performed, the doctor prescribes necessary medication and advises you regarding any hygienic and reprodcutive concerns. If necessary, she schedules a follow-up visit. When your OB-GYNE tells you to come back, do so. Many make the mistake of not returning after their initial check-up to save money, but eventually come back when their symptoms retun, sometimes even more serious than before.

You should not be embarrased about taking care of your reproductive system. A lot of these disorders and diseases affect your capability to bear healthy children in the future. It is important that symptoms are detected and treated as early as possible.



source: MEG magazine - May 2007