Characteristics of the genital organs. There are external and internal genitalia. The latter include the uterus, vagina and appendages (ovaries and fallopian tubes). In the cross section of the uterus, the cervix and the body are distinguished; in the vaginal part of the cervix, the disc and the cervical canal are distinguished. For the gynecologist, each of the listed parts of the internal genitalia is a kind of a separate organ for which there are separate diagnostic procedures.
Gynecological examination – the course of the examination
A gynecological examination is performed on a gynecological chair. During it, you will be lying down with your legs properly inverted on special supports. The test site is adequately lit (lamp). Immediately before the test, try to urinate to empty the bladder and thus facilitate the doctor’s work. It is also worth emptying the intestines of any remaining fecal masses in advance. This will reduce the risk of you experiencing discomfort during the test.
Gynecological examination – an important choice for every woman
Every woman of childbearing age (i.e. all the years when she has a menstrual period) should visit her gynecologist every year. Postmenopausal women may do it less often, especially if they are older than 60. All girls who have started menstruating should visit a gynecologist with their mother for the first time.
Annual gynecological examination allows to detect the so-called silent killers: breast cancer and cervical cancer. Regularly performed cytology and breast examination allow to detect possible early forms of these neoplastic diseases. Some of us are afraid of being examined by a gynecologist. However, this fear is unfounded, because every woman should take care of her health. Tests carried out in a gynecological office may be embarrassing, but rarely, if ever, painful.
Remember that it is up to you to choose a gynecologist. It’s worth it to be someone you trust. If you have not yet decided to choose a doctor, ask your friends if they can recommend someone to you. Also pay attention to the hygienic conditions in the office itself. Remember that it will be much easier for you to overcome possible shame or fear if the environment is clean and pleasant.
Do you want to perform a cytology test without visiting the gynecological office? You can choose a mail-order cytology on the LBC liquid, which consists in collecting the sample yourself using a special kit, and then sending it to the laboratory. Another option is LBC liquid cytology with gynecological consultation. The LBC thin-layer liquid method shows greater detectability of intraepithelial lesions compared to traditional cytology.