Gynecological Examination

What Is a Gynecological Examination?

Istanbul Sisli FertiJin Women’s Health and IVF Center

Gynecological examination is a health check that women of all ages should undergo regularly in order to protect female reproductive health and enable early diagnosis of possible diseases.
FertiJin Women’s Health and IVF Center in Sisli, Istanbul offers women a safe and comfortable examination experience with its modern, well-equipped examination rooms and experienced gynecologist team.

How Is a Gynecological Examination Performed?

Gynecological examination consists of three main stages:

Taking Anamnesis (Patient Medical History)
Physical Examination (External and Internal Genital Examination)
Laboratory and Imaging Tests (Ultrasonography, etc.)

The examination is generally performed outside the menstrual period and takes an average of 20–30 minutes.
In order for the patient to feel comfortable, the gynecologist explains all steps in detail before the examination.

1. Anamnesis (Patient Medical History) Process

The first step of the examination is the evaluation of the patient’s medical and personal history.
At this stage, the following topics are addressed in the anamnesis form filled out by the doctor:

Last menstrual period date, duration, and regularity of menstruation
History of intermenstrual bleeding or pain
Pregnancy history and birth control methods
Frequency of sexual intercourse, pain, or infection history
Gynecological diseases in the family

This information is very important for the correct planning of the examination process.

2. Types of Gynecological Examination

The types of gynecological examinations performed at FertiJin are evaluated under the following four headings:

External Genital Examination

The woman’s external genital area (labia majora, labia minora, clitoris, urethra) is visually examined.
The aim is to detect abnormalities such as redness, irritation, warts, discharge, or lesions.
During the examination, maximum care is given to the patient’s privacy; sterile covers are used, and the procedure is painless.

Speculum Examination

Speculum is an instrument that gently opens the vaginal walls and makes the cervix visible.
With this examination:

Cervix (servix) is examined,
A sample can be taken for the Pap Smear test,
Intravaginal lesions or infections can be evaluated.

Speculum examination is completed in a short time and does not cause pain.

Bimanual Examination

In this examination, the gynecologist checks the vagina with one hand while pressing the lower abdomen with the other hand.
The aim is to evaluate the size, position, and sensitivity of the uterus, ovaries, and pelvic organs.
Bimanual examination is critically important for detecting possible masses, pain, or structural changes in the internal genital organs.

Ultrasonographic Examination

Ultrasonography enables visualization of internal organs using sound waves.
Since it does not contain radiation, it can be safely applied both in healthy women and during pregnancy.

Types of ultrasound used in gynecology:

Abdominal ultrasound: Performed over the abdomen; a full bladder is recommended.
Vaginal ultrasound: Performed through the vagina and provides more detailed imaging of structures such as the uterus, ovaries, and endometrium.

With ultrasonographic examination:

Cysts, fibroids, polyps, or tumors can be detected,
Causes of pelvic pain can be investigated,
The baby’s development and organ formation can be monitored during pregnancy.