What to Expect From Your First Pelvic Exam

A pelvic exam is a routine examination of your reproductive organs. Most women get pelvic exams as part of their annual well-woman check-ups, but if you’ve never had one before, it’s normal to have questions. 

Our team at The Women's Center is here to help. We provide comprehensive gynecology care for teens and adults at 11 office locations around Orlando, Florida, and our goal is to make your care as comfortable and convenient as possible.

Here’s what to expect from your first pelvic exam.

What happens during a pelvic exam

Most of the time, your first pelvic exam is part of your routine well-woman appointment. Our team starts by taking a detailed medical history and asking questions about any symptoms you’re experiencing.

We also ask questions about your menstrual cycle and sexual activity. Depending on your needs, we can also answer questions about contraception, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), and general sexual health.

We ask you to change into an examination gown and lie back on the exam table. You place your feet in footrests and rest your hips on the edge of the table.

Next, we do your physical examination. Pelvic exams typically include a visual inspection of your external genitals and a manual examination of your internal reproductive organs. To help you feel more comfortable, we talk you through the process and let you know what’s coming next.

Your doctor inserts a speculum into your vagina to gently hold the walls open. They visually examine your cervix and do a Pap smear, which involves taking a small sample of cells to check for cervical cancer.

After removing the speculum, your doctor may do a bimanual examination, which involves gently inserting two fingers into your vagina while applying light pressure to your lower abdomen with the other hand. During this test, they check the size and shape of your uterus and ovaries and feel for any lumps or masses.

The entire exam typically takes only a few minutes. It shouldn’t be painful, but some women experience mild pressure or discomfort. Let us know if you’re uncomfortable at any point, so we can make adjustments as needed.

When to schedule your first pelvic exam

Pelvic exams are an essential part of every woman’s health care. They help detect any abnormalities in your reproductive organs, so you can seek a diagnosis and treatment before more serious conditions begin to develop.

Most women should have their first full pelvic exam around age 21, but every woman is different. We may recommend getting a pelvic exam earlier if you’re sexually active or if you have gynecologic symptoms like pelvic pain or heavy periods.

After your first pelvic exam, you should have one every year or so. It's important to have an open and honest conversation with your health care provider about your needs, and our team at The Women's Center can help you determine what’s best for you.

Regular pelvic exams are one of the best ways to protect your reproductive health and your overall well-being. Schedule your first pelvic exam at The Women’s Center to get started.