Without the need for an annual pelvic exam or Pap test, some women without symptoms, particularly those who also see an internist or family physician, may skip their annual visit to the gynecologist.

A pelvic exam is designed to check for signs of infection or other abnormalities in the pelvic area. Whether or not a woman needs the exam each year is a question with a not-so-simple answer.

During the exam, a device called a speculum will be inserted into the vagina. The speculum is opened to widen the vagina so that the vagina and cervix can be seen. Perform a Pap smear if indicated.

Jasmin McKee, 26, was diagnosed with stage 3 cervical cancer after she put off her annual pap smear because the test made her nervous ; She'd been experiencing bleeding after sex, but "brushed off ...

In addition, your doctor may recommend a pelvic exam and pap smear to check your reproductive organ health if you're between 21 and 65. Men will need a testicular exam to check the size and shape ...

A Pap smear, the test that screens for signs of cervical cancer, may be part of your well-woman exam. But it’s not the only reason to get a well-woman exam. The well-woman visit is also an opportunity ...

Here, a gynecologist shares pelvic exam tips on how to prepare and deal with the essential gyno visit. Pelvic exams can be uncomfortable. Here, ...

Medicare doesn't provide a specialized well-woman exam like the "Welcome to Medicare" wellness visit, but covered screenings and doctors' visits can include checkups for female health.

And finally, the pelvic exam, despite its frequent misuse, has also proven of great value medically. Perhaps the greatest success in cancer screening, the Pap smear, was first performed by ...

Between work, caregiving, and full calendars, finding time to schedule a well-woman exam or a Pap test can be challenging.