Health Information
Pelvic Examination
Why It Is Done
A Reference pelvic exam Opens New Window may be done:
- As part of a woman's regular physical checkup. A Reference Pap test Opens New Window may be done during the pelvic exam. For more information, see the topic Reference Pap Test.
- To detect vaginal infections, such as Reference yeast infections Opens New Window or Reference bacterial vaginosis Opens New Window.
- To help detect sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as Reference chlamydia Opens New Window, Reference herpes Opens New Window, Reference gonorrhea Opens New Window, Reference trichomoniasis Opens New Window, or Reference human papillomavirus (HPV) Opens New Window.
- To help determine the cause of abnormal uterine bleeding.
- To evaluate pelvic organ abnormalities, such as Reference uterine fibroids Opens New Window, Reference ovarian cysts Opens New Window, or Reference uterine prolapse Opens New Window.
- To evaluate abdominal or pelvic pain.
- Before prescribing a method of birth control (contraception). Some methods of birth control, such as a diaphragm or Reference intrauterine device Opens New Window, require a pelvic exam to make sure the device fits properly.
- Collect evidence in cases of suspected sexual assault.
© 1995-2011, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
