Last Updated on March 11, 2024 by admin
The gynaeologists deal with women’s reproductive health and related issues which includes menstrual cycles, menopause, childbirth, birth control, etc. They also test for cancer, treat disorders, and diagnose pelvic and urinary tract problems.
However, the thought of consulting the GYN, especially for the first time, can be a little challenging. Most women feel nervous or uncomfortable sharing their reproductive health issues with doctors. So, the Gynaecologist in Melbourne recommends all ages of women that it is absolutely normal to worry about scheduling the first appointment. Knowing the crucial facts in advance can help relieve stress.
So, here, in this article, we are listing all those facts that you can expect during your visit to an OB/GYN. Keep reading it and learn further.
Some Expected Facts During The Gynaecological Check-Up
The Normal Check-Ups
The normal gynaecological check-ups include height, weight, heartbeat, and blood pressure measurements. In addition, doctors will also test the hemoglobin and thyroid levels. They will use the results of all these basic check-ups in future health exams for comparison.
An External Vaginal Check-Ups
The gynaecologist will first analyze the exterior area of the vagina before examining it interiorly. The doctors will check for the abnormalities such as cysts, redness, swelling, bumps, itchiness, or lumps.
The Speculum Pelvic Exam
The pelvic exams are conducted by the OB/GYNs to examine the vulva and internal reproductive organs- ovaries, vagina, uterus, cervix, and fallopian tubes. For examining the interior part, doctors use the speculum, a medical tool helpful for opening the vaginal walls and seeing the vagina and cervix.
On placing the speculum properly, the gynaecologist uses one hand to put pressure on the outer area of the vagina. On the other hand, they use the two fingers of another hand to examine the inner part of the vagina. During this procedure, the doctors monitor the size of the uterus and ovaries.
When the professionals place the speculum inside the vagina, there might be the pressure that can be painful and uncomfortable. To ease the discomfort, relax as much as you can. However, if there is a huge pain, do not hesitate to share it with the OB/GYNs.
The healthcare providers perform the speculum pelvic exam to check unusual reproductive health issues. Irregular blood spotting, abnormal vaginal bleeding, or pelvic pain are among them. This test can prevent the risk of infertility and HIV.
The Pap Smear Exam
While the speculum is still inside the vagina, the doctors will perform the Pap smear exam. This test diagnoses cancerous cells. During the procedure, GYNs utilize a small brush or spatula to collect the sample of the cervical cells.
Doctors then test the sample in the laboratories for clear examinations of abnormal cells. It will either take days or weeks to get the final results. Even if there are no symptoms, the gynaecologist performs this exam to diagnose cancer.
There is a possibility of mild pain, slight cramps, or light bleeding. If these symptoms will last for more days, consult the GYN as soon as possible. Besides this, the Pap smear exam is a quick process and you may not feel any discomfort. However, there might be some chances of a pinch-like feeling or irritation.
The Bi-Manual Exam
After removing the speculum, the gynaecologist will start performing the bi-manual exam. During the process, the doctors insert the gloved fingers(which are lubricated) of one hand inside the vagina. Using the other hand, they put gentle pressure on the belly.
There can be slight discomfort or pressure, but again, do feel convenient to share this with GYNs during the examination. This test is necessary for checking any tenderness in the fallopian tubes or ovaries. The results could indicate the symptoms of ovarian cysts, enlarged ovaries, or any other reproductive health issues.
The Breast Exam
The doctors will manually perform the breast exam. They will let you lay down comfortably and check for abnormal lumps, nipple thickening or discharge, and skin changes. This test does not take much time and is absolutely painless. In a circular motion, OB/GYNs gently massage each breast.
This test catches the early symptoms of breast cancer. Diagnosing and treating it earlier can reduce the risk and allow the doctors what to look for. Such as if any lumps are analyzed during the breast exam, the gynaecologist will perform a biopsy to check if they’re cancerous or not.
The Pelvic Ultrasound
The gynaecologist will perform an ultrasound to check ovaries and uterus health. The procedure is done either transabdominally(by placing the ultrasound transducer over the abdominal area) or transvaginally(by placing it into the vagina).
In the transabdominal ultrasound, GYNs will apply the gel-like substance to the abdomen. Then, they will press the transducer against the skin and move it over the entire abdominal area for examining the uterus. The pictures will be observed on the monitor screen.
On the other hand, during transvaginal ultrasound, doctors place the transvaginal transducer(having a covering of latex or plastic sheath and lubricated) inside the vagina. Then, they will gently turn the transducer at an angle that focuses the uterus areas for examination.
While this tool will move inside the vagina, there may be some discomfort. Through the computer screen, doctors check the images. After examining the ultrasound reports, OB/GYNs will explain the results and may suggest further tests if required.
The Urine Sample
Urine samples are taken by the OB/GYNs for checking uterus-related issues, urinary tract infections, blood sugar levels, and kidney health.
Summing Up
Usually, the gynaecologist shares with you immediately if any of the exams will indicate anything unusual. The healthcare provider will discuss further steps or suggest additional tests or treatments that you would require.
A pelvic exam appointment is the right time to communicate to the GYNs about reproductive health. If there may be some questions in your mind, you can conveniently discuss them.
We hope you get a clear idea of all the facts you can expect from the gynaecological appointment and make your visit go smoothly.
