women s health issues
Gynecologic Examination
Introduction
For gynecologic care, a woman should choose a health care practitioner with whom she can comfortably discuss sensitive topics, such as sex, birth control, pregnancy, and problems related to menopause. The practitioner may be a doctor, a nurse-midwife, a nurse practitioner, or a physician assistant. A gynecologic evaluation includes the Gynecologic History and gynecologic examination. The gynecologic examination refers specifically to examination of a woman's reproductive system. It includes a breast examination. A pelvic examination is done if the woman's circumstances warrant it and the woman wishes it. However, the doctor (or other health care practitioner) may provide more general medical care and do a more general physical examination during the gynecologic visit. If a woman has any questions or fears about the gynecologic examination, she should talk with the doctor beforehand about her concerns. If any part of the examination causes pain, the woman should let the doctor know. The woman should empty her bladder before the physical examination and may be asked to collect a urine sample for analysis. The doctor may feel the neck and the thyroid gland to check for lumps and abnormalities. An enlarged, overactive thyroid gland ( Hyperthyroidism ) can cause menstrual abnormalities. The doctor examines the skin for signs of acne, excess body hair that is more typical of men ( A breast examination is typically done before the pelvic examination. With the woman sitting, the doctor inspects the breasts for irregularities, dimpling, tightened skin, Breast Lumps , and a The doctor may use a stethoscope to listen for activity of the intestine and to check for abnormal noises made by blood flowing through narrowed blood vessels. The doctor may tap areas of the abdomen with the fingers. The doctor gently feels the entire abdomen to check for abnormal growths or enlarged organs, especially the liver and spleen. Although the woman may experience some discomfort when the doctor presses deeply, the examination should not be painful. The doctor may also check the groin for a pulse (which is normally present), enlarged lymph nodes, and hernias. 