STD PHYSICAL EXAMINATION FOR WOMEN: ANAL AREA AND ANOSCOPY
The anal area and buttocks will be examined for any rashes, bumps, or sores. If there are symptoms in the anal area, or if the woman has diarrhea or evidence of infection on examination, then the area may be wiped with a swab to collect a sample for testing. If a woman has received anal intercourse, then swabs may be taken to rule out gonorrhea and chlamydia, whether or not she has symptoms. If a woman has diarrhea, a stool sample may be obtained to test for evidence of intestinal infections.
An anal examination is an important part of the check-up. Even if a woman has never received anal intercourse, certain STDs, such as warts and herpes, can reveal signs of infection in the anal area. If a woman has a gonorrhea infection in the cervix, for example, the anal area can become infected from secretions, even if she has not received anal sex.
If the woman has diarrhea or anal symptoms, a procedure called an anoscopy may be performed. This involves inserting a small plastic speculum into the anal area to look for changes in the lining of the rectum or for skin lesions such as warts. This is not a routine part of the examination if a woman is without symptoms in this area.
A rectal examination may be performed. In this procedure, the health care provider inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into the anal area to feel for masses or bumps.
6. A bimanual examination will be performed. In this procedure, the health care provider inserts one or two gloved, lubricated fingers into the vagina to feel the cervix, and then gently presses on the pelvic area with the other hand to feel the shape and contour of the uterus and ovaries. In this way, any swelling or tenderness of these organs can be detected. This part of the examination is important in detecting pelvic inflammatory disease.
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