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OB/GYNs provide care to women worldwide for various indications, including screening pelvic examinations in asymptomatic, non-pregnant women. However, there is ongoing debate about the benefits of such exams, and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists does not have recommendations for routine pelvic examinations.<br /><br />The pelvic exam typically involves an external inspection of the genitalia, a speculum examination of the vagina and cervix, a bimanual examination of the uterus and adnexa, and a rectovaginal examination. However, these techniques are not evidence-based.<br /><br />Improving the pelvic exam experience is crucial for the practice of OB/GYN care. This study aimed to compare the pain reported by patients based on the sequence of the pelvic exam and assess the relationship between pain and quality of life, self-esteem, and sexual function.<br /><br />The study enrolled 200 women, representing seven different OB/GYN physicians. Most patients were Caucasian, married, and in a long-term relationship. The findings showed that pain with the speculum exam was higher than pain with the bimanual exam, and patients who experienced pain after the speculum exam had lower quality of life scores.<br /><br />The study will serve as a baseline for future studies to develop a protocol for effectively examining women during the pelvic examination while minimizing discomfort and improving the patient experience.<br /><br />Overall, this research highlights the importance of optimizing the pelvic exam to decrease unnecessary anxiety or discomfort and improve patient outcomes in OB/GYN care.

Meta Tag

Concept Pelvic Exam

Concept Patient-Reported Pain

Concept Pelvic Examination Component

Concept Speculum Examination

Concept Bimanual Examination

Keywords

OB/GYNs

pelvic examinations

benefits of pelvic exams

speculum examination

bimanual examination

rectovaginal examination

pain during pelvic exam

quality of life

sexual function

patient outcomes

Pelvic Exam

Patient-Reported Pain

Pelvic Examination Component

Speculum Examination

Bimanual Examination