Regular gynecological examinations allow to ensure and maintain women's health, to detect and treat diseases early, and to increase the quality of life of women in addition to maintaining healthy reproduction. Therefore, regular gynecological examination plays a very important role for women's health. A gynecological examination in a non-pregnant woman over the age of 21 can be performed to evaluate existing complaints or to perform a smear (Pap test) and/or HPV test, to screen for various sexually transmitted diseases or just for control purposes, even if there is no complaint.
In the women's health programs carried out by the Ministry of Health in our country, it is recommended to give gynecological examinations and counseling in terms of women's and reproductive health starting from the age of 15. In the guidelines, it is recommended that the gynecological examination be performed once a year, unless there is an additional disease.
Before the gynecological examination is performed, the patient should be explained in detail why it will be done, its harm and benefit, how it will be done, and the decision should be made together with the patient. Gynecological examinations are performed on flat and gynecological examination tables, in an environment with an assistant attendant. After the age of 21, Pap smear is added to the gynecological examination every 3 years. The gynecological examination begins with the visual evaluation of the external side (external genitalia) (in terms of skin color, veins, scratches, swelling, etc.). Then the vaginal entrance is evaluated. In this area, it is evaluated whether there is sagging (eg, bladder, bowel, etc.). In cases suitable for vaginal examination, the vaginal walls and cervix are examined with an examination instrument (speculum). At this time, cervical smear (smear) examination can be done. After that, female internal organs (internal genitals) are evaluated by performing a (bimanual) examination with two hands (one hand on the abdomen and the other on the vaginal area). Ultrasonography has become an indispensable part of gynecological examination today. In those who are not suitable for vaginal examination, the evaluation of the internal genital organs can be done with abdominal ultrasound.
Gynecological examination is performed with the consent of the patient. However, except for examinations performed under anesthesia, written consent is not obtained before the obstetrics examination. After each gynecological examination, the results and findings of the examination are explained to the patient in clear, concise, short and understandable terms and information is given.
