You will go into an examination room, where you’ll undress and put on a paper or cloth gown. A health care provider will come into the room for the exam. If you would prefer a clinician of a particular gender, you can request that ahead of time. In most cases, a female nurse will be present in the room during the exam regardless of the gender of the doctor.

You’ll be asked to slide down to the end of the exam table and place your feet in the stirrups at the end of the table. This position makes it easier for the gynecologist to examine the vulva and check both inside and outside the vaginal area. Usually, the gynecologist will check the labia and vulva for the general health of the skin.

Next, the gynecologist will insert a metal or plastic device called a speculum into the vagina. By gently squeezing the handle of the speculum, its two sides will hold open the vaginal walls so the gynecologist can see the cervix at the back of the vagina.

If you are 21 or older, the gynecologist will gently rub the cervix with something similar to a tongue depressor (but smaller) to collect some of the cells near the opening to the cervix. These cells are placed on a slide and examined under a microscope at a lab. This is called a Pap test, which tests for irregular cells on the cervix that could indicate a pre-cancerous condition. The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that women get their first Pap test at 21, and get them every two years until age 30.

After the Pap test, the gynecologist removes the speculum and inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into the vagina while gently pressing on the abdomen with the other hand. This is called a bimanual (“two handed”) exam, which checks for the position and size of the uterus and ovaries.

The pelvic exam shouldn’t be painful, but some parts of it can feel a little uncomfortable. Try to relax and breathe deeply. It only lasts a few minutes. If you feel any pain, tell the gynecologist right away. It could mean something is wrong.

After the exam, the gynecologist might ask if you have questions, or you might be instructed to get dressed and then talk to him or her. This is when the gynecologist can prescribe birth control or any other medications and address any of your health concerns.

Doctors recommend that you first visit the gynecologist when you are between 13-15 years old. Your first visit to the gynecologist may not involve a pelvic exam; it might just be a conversation with the doctor and answering any questions you have. Visits to the gynecologist should continue every year of your life to ensure good health although you may not need the entire exam every year.

To find a gynecologist, check out this FAQ.