$Unique_ID{BRK01463}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Is a Pelvic Examination Necessary?}
$Subject{pelvic examination menopause checkup special procedures laboratory
tests genitourinary system age genital cancer incontinence exam examine
examining aging old older vagina cervix uterus examinations checkups procedure
genitals cancers }
$Volume{P-14, J-14, T-14}
$Log{
Diseases of the Female Reproductive System*0009001.scf}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Is a Pelvic Examination Necessary?


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QUESTION:  I am a long time past my last period, and as a widow, my sexually
active days are also passed.  That is why I am just a bit put out by my
physician's insistence that a pelvic examination be part of my physical
checkup.  It is not a procedure that I much liked when I was younger and felt
it was necessary, but now that I passed all that I feel it is a total waste of
time.  Don't you agree?  Please put your answer in your column so I can show
it to my doctor.

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ANSWER:  I think your question is of enough general interest to merit an
answer in the column, but I am afraid you're not going to like what I have to
say.  Though I fully understand your point of view, that fact is that there
are still many afflictions that may yet affect this area, and you are placing
a large obstacle in the path of their diagnosis.  There are many conditions
that are age related, not the least important one is genital cancer, more
common in the older age group, that can be readily diagnosed during the
pelvic.  And there are still infections, though not necessarily sexually
transmitted, that may occur.  You are preventing their early diagnosis and
thus early cure when you omit the pelvic examination from your regular
physical.  I am not advocating that you be examined each time you visit your
physician, but certainly it is wise to consider this procedure during a
once-a-year annual checkup.  It is also during this exam that problems that
may lead to incontinence can be observed, and an opportunity to discuss other
intimate conditions with your physician.  I don't believe his insistence is
anything more than a meritorious and professional concern for your well being
and health.  And you certainly have my permission to show him this column, if
you still care to.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.