What should a 20-year-old female undergo a gynecological examination for?

A 20-year-old female gynecological examination usually requires examination of external genitalia, vaginal secretions, cervix, uterus and pelvic cavity, breast, and other items. 20-year-old women may face common gynecological problems such as menstrual disorders, vaginitis, cervicitis, etc. Regular check ups can help detect and intervene early.

1. External genital examination

External genital examination mainly observes whether there are abnormalities such as redness, swelling, ulcers, and growths on the skin and mucosa of the external genital area. Doctors will evaluate the development of the external genitalia through visual and palpation examinations, and check for the presence of lesions such as Papal cysts and genital warts. This examination is non-invasive and painless, and is a basic item of gynecological physical examination. If symptoms such as itching and abnormal vaginal discharge are found, it may indicate vulvovaginitis and further examination of secretions is needed.

2. Vaginal Secretion Examination

Vaginal secretion examination involves collecting vaginal secretion samples to detect abnormal pH values, clue cells, Candida, Trichomonas, and other indicators. The examination can diagnose bacterial vaginosis, vulvovaginal candidiasis, trichomonal vaginitis and other common infectious diseases. Sexual activity, vaginal flushing, and medication should be avoided 24 hours before the examination. If a pathogen is detected, medication such as clotrimazole vaginal tablets and metronidazole suppositories should be used according to medical advice for treatment.

III. Cervical Examination

Cervical examination includes visual examination and cytological examination of the cervix. Doctors use a vaginal speculum to observe for cervical erosion, polyps, and other lesions, and may also perform cervical TCT or HPV testing to screen for cervical precancerous lesions. It is recommended to undergo cervical cytology examination every 3 years after the age of 20. If physiological changes such as the outward migration of cervical columnar epithelium are found, special treatment is usually not necessary; If high-risk HPV infection is detected, regular follow-up monitoring is required.

Fourth, Uterine and Pelvic Examination

Evaluate the position, size, texture, and adnexal area of the uterus through dual diagnosis or ultrasound examination. Gynecological ultrasound can detect common lesions such as uterine fibroids and ovarian cysts, and has important diagnostic value for patients with dysmenorrhea and abnormal menstrual flow. Before transvaginal ultrasound examination, the bladder needs to be emptied, and those without a sexual history should choose transabdominal ultrasound. If endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome and other diseases are found, it may be necessary to use drugs such as levonorgestrel ethinylestradiol tablets to regulate the menstrual cycle.

Fifth, Breast Examination

Breast examination includes visual examination, palpation, and breast ultrasound to evaluate breast development and the presence of abnormalities such as lumps and discharge. It is recommended to undergo monthly breast self-examination and annual clinical breast examination starting from the age of 20. Breast ultrasound is more effective in detecting dense breast tissue than mammography, and there is no radiation risk. If benign lesions such as breast fibroadenoma are detected, regular follow-up examinations are usually only necessary; If suspicious malignant signs are found, further biopsy is required to confirm the diagnosis.

20-year-old women should establish a regular gynecological examination habit, and it is recommended to undergo a comprehensive examination once a year. Pay attention to keeping the external genitalia clean and dry in daily life, and avoid using irritating cleansers. Choose cotton breathable underwear and change it frequently, and change sanitary products in a timely manner during menstruation. Maintain a regular schedule and moderate exercise to avoid prolonged staying up late or mental stress. If symptoms such as abnormal vaginal bleeding, severe dysmenorrhea, or abnormal secretions occur, seek medical attention promptly instead of self medication. Reasonable diet and weight control, reducing high sugar and high-fat diet intake, can help maintain endocrine balance and reproductive system health.