What does gynecological examination mean

Gynecological examination refers to the medical examination items for the health status of the female reproductive system, mainly including external genital examination, vaginal examination, cervical examination, uterine and accessory examination, etc., used to screen for gynecological diseases such as inflammation, tumors, endocrine abnormalities, etc.

1. External genital examination

Observe the skin and mucosa of the external genital area visually for redness, swelling, ulcers, and growths, and examine the distribution and development of pubic hair. Lesions such as vulvitis, genital warts, and Bartholin's gland cysts can be detected, and secretion sampling and testing may be performed if necessary. Sexual activity and vaginal irrigation should be avoided 24 hours before the examination.

2. Vaginal examination

Use a vaginal speculum to dilate the vaginal wall, observe the color and secretion characteristics of the vaginal mucosa, and detect pH value and cleanliness. It can diagnose bacterial vaginosis, trichomonal vaginitis, fungal vaginitis and other infectious diseases. postmenopausal women may experience vaginal atrophy and require special evaluation.

3. Cervical examination

includes cervical scraping (TCT) and human papillomavirus (HPV) testing, which screen for cervical precancerous lesions through cytology. Visually observe abnormalities such as cervical erosion, polyps, and Nabothian cysts. Suspected lesions require vaginal colposcopy biopsy. It is recommended that women over 21 years old undergo regular cervical cancer screening.

4. Uterine accessory examination

evaluates the position, size, and texture of the uterus through double diagnosis or ultrasound, and checks for tenderness and lumps in the fallopian tubes and ovaries. Diseases such as uterine fibroids, endometriosis, and ovarian cysts can be found. Transvaginal ultrasound can more clearly display the thickness of the endometrium and the development of follicles.

5. Breast examination [SEP], as an extension of gynecological physical examination, is used to screen breast hyperplasia, fibroadenoma, breast cancer and other diseases through palpation and breast ultrasound/mammography. The examination should avoid the week before menstruation. Breastfeeding women need to empty their milk before examination. If a lump is found, further biopsy should be performed.

It is recommended that women of childbearing age undergo a comprehensive gynecological examination once a year, with the best examination time being 3-7 days after menstruation. Avoid vaginal medication and baths for 3 days before the examination, and wear loose clothing for easy examination. If any abnormalities are found during physical examination, timely re examination is required. For those with abnormal cervical cancer screening, vaginal colposcopy or pathological examination should be performed according to medical advice. Pay attention to the cleanliness and hygiene of the perineum in daily life, avoid multiple sexual partners, and receive HPV vaccine to effectively prevent related diseases.