One of the most well-known exams among women is the vaginal (touch) exam. During pregnancy, however, it becomes a true ally for women, and depending on your healthcare provider, it may even be performed monthly during prenatal visits. But do you know why the vaginal exam is done? What is it for, and how is it performed? Are you afraid it might hurt? Is it normal to bleed? Let’s uncover all the secrets of this exam, which can sometimes leave pregnant women a little worried.
How Is the Vaginal Exam Performed During Pregnancy?
Just like with women who are not pregnant, the vaginal exam is done with the patient lying down and with her legs slightly apart. The position of the examination table allows the doctor (obstetric gynecologist) to control how the fingers are inserted and, if necessary, to visualize the vaginal cavity. Using a lubricated glove (sometimes not), the doctor inserts two fingers into the vagina and searches for the cervix. There, they can assess various conditions of the pregnancy and any problems that may be occurring, such as an infection or candidiasis1, for example.
What Is the Purpose of the Vaginal Exam?
The vaginal exam is a way to check for changes occurring in the cervix of a pregnant woman through touch. Many times, certain problems or conditions and several other aspects cannot be detected through an ultrasound but are efficiently assessed with this exam. The vaginal exam checks, among other things, the dilation, the thickness of the cervix (whether it is effaced or not), and also the possible time it might take for labor to begin.
When Is the Vaginal Exam Performed?
The vaginal exam can be performed at any stage of pregnancy; it depends on necessity. If the doctor has concerns, it can even be done in the first few weeks of pregnancy to investigate an occurrence, such as bleeding.
Some doctors perform this exam as a routine part of prenatal visits, while others only do it in extreme cases (at the start of pregnancy, up until the last weeks of gestation) and only start performing it if the patient has complaints or if labor is approaching. For a normal delivery, the vaginal exam is essential to determine how many centimeters dilated the woman is2.
Does the Vaginal Exam Hurt? Is Bleeding Possible?
It depends. Sensitivity may be directly related to whether the pregnant woman has any existing problems. Normally, a cervical exam performed in the doctor’s office does not cause pain, but it can cause a sensation of very strong pressure in the lower abdomen.
Some women describe this sensation as similar to very deep penetration. In fact, penetration without arousal can cause a similar feeling.
Explanatory Videos
Depending on the professional performing the vaginal exam, you may feel more or less discomfort than expected, in addition to any that might be caused by pre-existing problems in the vagina or cervix during pregnancy. Pain is a relative experience; some feel more than others, but the pain is generally not unbearable.
If it causes significant pain, something may be wrong. It’s also possible to feel strange after the exam, as if you had intercourse involving very deep and intense penetration. It can also feel somewhat like having a tampon inserted, but this sensation will pass soon.
Bleeding
Bleeding is a common complaint among pregnant women3. However, it does not necessarily mean that something is wrong. Bleeding may occur because something “touched” the cervix and a blood vessel may have ruptured, or it can cause bleeding due to swelling of the uterus, but the amount should not be excessive.
If it is, it is best to check with a doctor to find out what is happening. The same thing can happen during sexual intercourse and, of course, frighten the woman. However, it is important to say that you should consult a doctor if this happens.
You should also never attempt a self-exam at home; only a trained and specialized doctor should perform it. Remember the risks that can surround this exam, such as preterm labor or even miscarriage. The vaginal exam complements other exams. Talk to your doctor and clear up any doubts.
See also: Pain in Pregnancy – What Is Normal?
Photos: Maigh
