Pelvic Examination

Gynecologic Exam

Results

A pelvic examination is a complete physical exam of a woman's pelvic organs by a health professional. A pelvic exam helps a health professional evaluate the size and position of the vagina, cervix, uterus, and ovaries.

Pelvic exam

Normal:	The uterus and ovaries are normal in size and location. The uterus can be moved slightly without causing pain.
	The vulva, vagina, and cervix appear normal with no signs of infection, inflammation, or other abnormalities.
	Glands around the opening of your vagina (Bartholin's glands) or urethra (Skene's glands) are not swollen or inflamed.
	No masses (nodules) of abnormal tissue are felt in the area between the uterus and rectum (cul-de-sac) or in the strong bands of tissue (ligaments) that attach to the uterus to hold it in place. No fibroids are felt during the bimanual pelvic or rectal exams.
	No pelvic pain or tenderness is present.
	No hardening of tissue is felt.
Abnormal:	Sores, signs of infection, inflammation, or abnormalities of the vulva, vagina, or cervix are present. Signs of a sexually transmitted disease (such as genital herpes, genital warts, or syphilis) may be present. Additional testing will be required to determine the cause.
	The glands around the vagina (Bartholin's glands) or urethra (Skene's glands) are swollen or inflamed.
	The uterus cannot be moved (even slightly) during the exam.
	Pain or tenderness is felt when the uterus is moved slightly or when the area between the uterus and rectum (cul-de-sac) is touched. The uterus is pushed away from the midline of the abdomen.
	The ovaries are enlarged, not movable (fixed), or painful when touched.
	An ovarian mass is present or a mass that was detected during a previous gynecologic exam is still present or has grown larger.
	Small masses (nodules) of abnormal tissue are felt near the uterus or in the cul-de-sac. Uterine fibroids are felt during the bimanual pelvic or rectal exam.
	Hardening of tissue (induration) is felt.
	An area of ulceration or a tear is found.
	A mass can be felt near one or both ovaries.

 

Many conditions can change the results of your pelvic exam. Your health professional will discuss any significant abnormal results with you in relation to your symptoms and medical history.

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Author:	Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS	Last Updated: June 6, 2007
Medical Review:	Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology
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