Pelvic Exams

Questions About a Pelvic Exam?
Knowing what to expect can help you prepare for your visit.
New-patient appointments are typically available within one week, sometimes sooner, depending on visit type and availability.
Call 302-644-9080 to Schedule

At DelMed Health in Lewes, Delaware, Dr. Moise provides gynecologic examinations and evaluates concerns such as pelvic discomfort, unusual bleeding, and vaginal irritation or discharge.

Our yearly wellness visits routinely include a pelvic examination and a clinical breast examination. This page explains the pelvic examination. Visit our Wellness Exams page to learn about the full yearly visit.

What Does a Pelvic Exam Involve?

A pelvic examination is a physical examination, not an imaging scan. Dr. Moise can explain the steps and discuss which parts are appropriate for you before proceeding. An examination may include:

1. External examination: Looking at the vulva, or external genital area, for changes or areas of concern.
2. Speculum examination: Placing an instrument called a speculum in the vagina to hold the vaginal walls apart so the vagina and cervix can be examined.
3. Examination by touch: Placing one or two gloved, lubricated fingers in the vagina while the other hand presses on the lower abdomen to assess the uterus and surrounding pelvic structures.

You may feel pressure or discomfort. Tell Dr. Moise if anything hurts or feels uncomfortable; you do not need to continue through pain.

Is a Pelvic Exam the Same as a Pap Test?

No. A pelvic examination is a physical assessment; a Pap test collects cervical cells for laboratory screening. Pap testing is not automatically performed at every yearly visit. Whether screening is due depends on your age, medical history, and previous results. A pelvic examination does not replace cervical cancer screening when it is due.

When screening is due, DelMed Health uses ThinPrep Pap testing, with reflex HPV testing when indicated. Specimens are collected in our office and sent to an outside laboratory.

Before Your Appointment

Bring your questions and information about medications, previous test results, and any changes in your health. Tell us when scheduling if you have a new symptom or concern so we can arrange the appropriate visit.

Preparation depends on the tests planned for your visit. Call our office for instructions, including advice about vaginal medications or products before testing. Do not stop prescribed treatment without checking with your clinician.

If your period starts before your appointment, call before canceling. We can advise you based on your bleeding, symptoms, and any testing scheduled.

Your Comfort Matters

Let Dr. Moise know about anxiety, pain, or previous difficulty with examinations before the examination begins. You may ask questions, decline any part of the examination, or request a pause or stop at any time.

A female member of our office staff is available to be present during your examination upon request. These staff members are nonclinical and do not perform examinations or provide medical care. Let us know when scheduling or during your visit.

Dr. Moise speaks English, Spanish, French, and Haitian Creole.

Schedule Your Gynecology Visit
New to the practice or returning for care? Call our Lewes office to arrange your appointment.
New-patient appointments are typically available within one week, sometimes sooner, depending on visit type and availability.
Call 302-644-9080 to Schedule

Explore all gynecology services at DelMed Health.