What Is Included in a Gynaecological Examination?

‘Caring beyond oneself’ - goes very well for every woman. They always keep the family’s interest, care, and needs at the forefront. Sometimes in this hustle, their health gets compromised. But it’s time that we together (Including males and females) encourage women for periodic gynaecological examinations. 

These exams are very critical in assessing a woman’s reproductive health, which has a significant impact on their day-to-day life. It includes assessment of external and internal reproductive organs and breasts.

Gynaecological exams act as a critical diagnostic tool, enabling doctors to check for abnormalities like abnormal bleeding or discharge, pelvic pain, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), cysts, tumours, and anatomical problems. 

What’s Included in a Gynaecological Examination?

We have categorised the gynaecological examination into two categories:

External genitalia

External female genitalia refers to the vulva, which includes: 

• Mons pubis: Rounded mass of fat that lies over the pubic bone. 
• Labia majora: Large folds of tissues that run from the mons pubis to the anus. 
• Labia minora: The inner fold of tissues that lines the vaginal opening.
• Clitoris: Female sex organ. It’s the most important sensitive part of the vulva.
• Vaginal introitus: The opening or entrance of the vagina. 
• Urethral meatus: The opening end of the urethra that allows the urine to pass. 
• Perineum: The area between the vulva and anus.  
• Skene’s and Bartholin’s glands: These glands are located near the vaginal opening, helping in lubrication and sexual arousal.
• Vestibular bulbs: Two masses of erectile tissues located on each side of the vaginal opening.
• Vulva vestibule: Triangle-shaped area between the labia minora. 

During the gynaecological examination, your gynaecologist will check each part of the external genital to identify any abnormality. The doctor may also check the anus or rectum and breasts.

Internal genitalia 

This category includes the vagina, cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. Your gynaecologist will also check the bladder and pelvic floor musculature.

• Vagina: Closed muscular tube that connects the vulva and cervix.
• Cervix: Muscular passageway at the base of the uterus.
• Uterus: Inverted pear-shaped, hollow, and muscular organ located in the pelvic area where a fertilized egg gets implanted. 
• Fallopian tubes: Slender tubes that connect the ovaries to the uterus. 
• Ovaries: Pair of glands that produce eggs and hormones.
• Bladder: Muscular-shaped organ in the lower abdomen that stores urine.
• Pelvic floor musculature: Group of muscles that support the uterus, bladder, and bowel.
• Rectovaginal septum: A strong sheet of connective tissue between the rectum and the vagina. 

Who Should Go for a Gynaecological Examination?

Every adult female should consider a yearly gynaecological exam to identify problems early. Those with the following symptoms should immediately visit their doctors:

• Abnormal bleeding or vaginal discharge
• Itching or visible masses or ulcers in the pubic area
• Infertility 
• Trauma or retained foreign object
• Incontinence
• Pelvic pain or pelvic disorder