Pelvic exams and pap smears are a necessary component of maintaining a woman's health. Think of them as preventative medicine. Your doctor will be able to check you for cervical cancer, sexually transmitted diseases and other possible abnormalities. Women under 30 should have a pap test and exam on a yearly basis, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Even if you are not sexually active, you should have a pelvic exam and pap test if you experience any abnormal symptoms, such as unexplained pain, bleeding or vaginal discharge.
Preparation
Pap smears are part of a regular pelvic exam. Because your doctor will test samples of cervix cells, you'll need to take a few measures to prevent wrong test results. For 48 hours before your exam, abstain from sexual intercourse, douching, inserting tampons or using any vaginal product, such as creams, deodorant powders or suppositories. Reschedule your exam if you're having your period. If you're at the doctor's office for your first pelvic exam and pap smear, let the nurse know it's your first time. She can answer any questions you have and ease any worries.
Examination
Your initial examination will begin much like any other doctor visit: You will need to answer questions about your overall health, any medications you take and any allergies you have. You'll also need to give the date of your last period. Your doctor will ask you if you've ever been sexually abused. This is a good time to ask your doctor any health questions you may have.
Pap Test
Following this, you'll need to disrobe and dress in a hospital gown. You'll lie on the exam table with a cover for your lap and legs. Your doctor will then guide your foot into the stirrups on the edge of the table. You may feel tense at this point, but it's important to keep your muscles relaxed and allow your legs to spread. After checking the outside of your vagina for any abnormalities, your doctor will examine your vagina using a speculum. A speculum is a simple tool that is gently opened in your vagina so that your doctor can examine inside. She'll then use a small brush-like instrument to take samples of cells from your cervix. Remember, if you feel tense, take deep breaths and try to keep your muscles relaxed.
Final Examination
After the cervical cell samples have been taken, your doctor will remove the brush and the speculum. Your exam is almost over at this point. Your doctor will use a finger inserted into your vagina to check your organs (ovaries, fallopian tubes and uterus). She'll be wearing gloves. You may feel some pressure, but this part of the exam takes only a couple of minutes. Following the internal examination, many doctors also conduct a brief breast examination to check for any abnormalities. After the exam is finished, you'll have an approximately three-week wait for the lab results from your pap smear. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, most test results turn out to be normal. If you have an abnormal test result, you'll need to schedule another appointment with your doctor.
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