What is the Bimanual Exam During My Pelvic Exam?

Another part of your annual pelvic exam is called a bimanual exam. This test is performed when your gynecologist inserts two fingers into your vagina and places the other hand on top of your lower abdomen, while feeling for any abnormalities that might have occurred since your last pelvic exam. During this part of your examination, your doctor checks the size, shape, and mobility of your uterus. Changes in your ovaries, such as may be detected during the bimanual exam, as well as other uterine changes including endometriosis, fibroid tumors, or other common uterine conditions.

Women, forty and older need a colorectal exam, as well as a fecal blood occult test for possible changes in your colon. If your GYN does not do this, you should ask him to perform this possibly lifesaving examination.

See: What is a Colonoscopy?

When the examination portion of your appointment is complete, your gynecologist will go over your health diary and answer any questions you have. This is when you should tell your gynecologist about the timing and frequency of any illness or other condition you might have experienced since your last appointment. Also make sure to include information about whether you have experienced irregular periodsor painful periods, or any other menstrual problems, vaginal infections, or painful sexual intercourse.

Other health issues to discuss include any dramatic weight change, hair loss or skin changes.

_Sources:

ACOG Recommends First OB/GYN Visit in Early Teens, accessed 08/21/06.

ACOG, New Cervical Cancer Guidelines, accessed 08/21/06.

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