Rectal gynecological examination is not pleasant, but there are times when it is necessary and even more effective than standard vaginal examination. Find out when your gynecologist can decide to do a rectal exam and what it can tell us.

Rectal gynecological examination( rectal examination ) is indicated in some specific cases. Young children and infants, adolescents and young women who have not yet started having sexual intercourse are examined so as not to damage the hymen. Sometimes also pregnant women are examined per rectum just before delivery, because at this point the vaginal examination can be very painful, and from the anus side you can accurately feel the baby's head. Opinions on this subject are divided, but some doctors believe that such an examination should be performed as standard during each control visit to the gynecologist's office, along with the classic vaginal examination and an interview. This is because it allows for an even more accurate assessment of the internal reproductive organs - from the other side.

What does an anal gynecological examination look like?

"Per rectum", although it is generally associated with proctological examination, is one of the basic examinations also in urology and gynecology. They are performed with a finger, which the doctor inserts (of course in a glove and with a special gel) to a depth of about 7-8 cm, i.e. into the so-called Kohlrausch fold. The patient may assume one of two positions: lying on her side (slightly less embarrassing) and leaning on her elbows and knees with her bottom up.

Why can gynecological examination also be performed through the anus?

This is favored by the proximity of the rectum and reproductive organs. They are separated from each other only by a thin fold of the peritoneal membrane, the so-called Douglas Bay, or recto-uterine cavity. The doctor can use a finger placed in the woman's anus to sense the position, size, mobility, surface structure and possible painfulness of the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes and vagina. If certain abnormalities are detected, an ultrasound can also be performed through the anus.

What can be examined "per rectum" at the gynecologist?

  • vaginal back wall
  • ovaries
  • cervix
  • recto-uterine cavity
  • in pregnant women, fetal head
  • the condition and contents of the rectum, and the tension of the sphincter muscles

It is worth noting that in the era of the scourge of digestive problems, the above-mentioned "incidentally" may be very valuable for the patient. It is of great importance when it comes to detecting neoplastic changes in the rectum and around the anus.

Category:

Pregnant examinations