Cervical checks are a routine part of gynecological care and pregnancy. These examinations involve a healthcare provider inspecting or feeling the cervix, the lower, narrow end of the uterus that connects to the vagina. Regularly checking the cervix allows for early detection of changes that could indicate various health conditions, from infections to precancerous cells. This helps ensure timely interventions.
Routine Gynecological Exams
Cervical checks are part of routine gynecological care, typically performed during annual wellness visits. These examinations focus on screening for cervical cancer. A Pap test involves collecting cervical cells to examine for abnormal changes. This test detects precancerous or cancerous cells, allowing for early intervention.
HPV co-testing is often performed for individuals aged 30 and above. HPV is a common virus causing most cervical cancers; co-testing identifies high-risk types. Guidelines recommend Pap tests every three years for individuals aged 21 to 29. For those aged 30 to 65, screening can involve a Pap test every three years, or a combination of Pap and HPV co-testing every five years. Regular screenings are crucial for early detection, even for those who have received the HPV vaccine.
During Pregnancy
Cervical checks are important throughout pregnancy. An initial assessment may occur during the first prenatal visit to evaluate cervical health. Later in pregnancy, particularly around 36 to 37 weeks, providers may perform cervical checks to assess the cervix’s readiness for labor, though not always necessary if there are no complications. These checks provide information on cervical dilation (how open the cervix is) and effacement (how thin it is), factors indicating labor readiness.
Cervical examinations are relevant if there are concerns about preterm labor, helping determine if the cervix is dilating or effacing too early. During active labor, checks are performed more frequently, typically every four to six hours, to monitor the progression of dilation and effacement. This helps providers understand labor progression and guide interventions. The Bishop score, which evaluates dilation, effacement, consistency, position, and fetal station, assesses cervical readiness and predicts successful labor induction.
Responding to Specific Symptoms
Cervical checks are also performed when a patient presents with specific symptoms or concerns to investigate. This helps identify or rule out various conditions. For instance, abnormal vaginal bleeding, like bleeding after intercourse or between periods, often prompts a cervical examination to find the cause. Unexplained pelvic pain may also require a cervical check to assess reproductive organ issues.
Suspected infections, including sexually transmitted infections or yeast infections, prompt a cervical examination. During this check, samples can be collected for laboratory testing to identify the pathogen and guide treatment. If a routine Pap test yields abnormal results, a follow-up colposcopy is performed. A colposcopy uses a magnifying instrument to examine the cervix for abnormal cells; a biopsy may be taken for further analysis. These targeted checks diagnose and manage conditions not apparent during routine screenings.
The Cervical Check Procedure
Undergoing a cervical check involves a straightforward process for examination and sample collection. Patients typically lie on their back on an exam table with their feet supported in stirrups for proper positioning. A healthcare provider then gently inserts a speculum into the vagina; this instrument (plastic or metal) holds the vaginal walls apart for a clear view of the cervix. The speculum may cause pressure or mild discomfort but should not be painful.
Once the cervix is visible, the provider can collect samples. For a Pap test, a small brush or spatula gathers cells from the cervical surface. For infections, a cotton swab might collect discharge or tissue. Throughout the procedure, open communication with the healthcare provider is important, allowing the patient to voice discomfort or concerns. The entire process typically takes only a few minutes, providing information for diagnosis or screening.