Due to women's unique physiology, many gynecological diseases lack obvious symptoms in their early stages. Therefore, regular gynecological examinations can help identify any lesions early and initiate treatment, improving prognosis.
Some diseases are more subtle, and by the time a patient experiences discomfort or physical reactions, the optimal treatment window may have already been missed. Sexually active women should undergo an annual gynecological examination to detect diseases early and implement preventive and treatment measures.
Why should a gynecological examination be performed?
- Many gynecological diseases are "asymptomatic." Many women assume, "If I don't feel any discomfort, I don't need to get checked."
The reality is, several common major diseases in women often lack obvious symptoms in their early stages:
Cervical cancer: It is usually painless and bleeding-free in its early stages. By the time contact bleeding occurs, it is often already in the middle or late stages.
Ovarian cancer: Known as the "silent killer of gynecology," it is often mistaken for a gastrointestinal problem and is often already advanced by the time it is diagnosed.
Endometrial cancer: In its early stages, it may only cause mild, irregular bleeding, which can be easily overlooked.
HPV infection: While often asymptomatic, it is the root cause of cervical cancer. Clinical studies show that nearly 70% of cervical cancer patients have never undergone routine screening before diagnosis. This is a stark reality.
- Risks vary by age.
Women who are sexually active before age 20: HPV infection rates are high, and screening is recommended within three years of first sexual intercourse. Women aged 30–50: Cervical and ovarian cancers are most common.
Women over 50: Hormonal changes increase the risk of endometrial and breast cancer. Postmenopausal women: If bleeding occurs, uterine cancer must be ruled out.
Regular checkups are a way to understand your body, not a hassle.
What does a gynecological exam check for? Is it embarrassing or painful?
Many women worry that gynecological exams are "private" and "uncomfortable." However, with proper communication, a relaxed attitude, and a qualified doctor, most exams are acceptable.
- Gynecological Internal Examination (Pelvic Examination): The doctor, wearing gloves, palpates the uterus and ovaries to check for enlargement, masses, or tenderness, thereby assessing pelvic health. Purpose: Initial detection of uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts, etc.
Discomfort: Mild, but generally tolerated if the doctor gently handles the procedure.
Recommended frequency: Annually, especially for sexually active women.
- Routine vaginal discharge examination: Collecting vaginal secretions to check for inflammation (such as fungal infections, Trichomonas, and bacterial vaginosis).
Purpose: Detect infection and prevent pelvic infection.
Painless, short sampling time.
- Cervical TCT (liquid-based cytology) + HPV testing: TCT detects abnormalities in cervical epithelial cells; HPV tests for high-risk HPV infection.
TCT is suitable for annual screening; HPV-positive patients require more frequent follow-up.
Clinical studies have confirmed that combined TCT and HPV screening significantly increases the early diagnosis rate of cervical cancer.
- Transvaginal ultrasound: Transvaginal ultrasound offers high clarity and allows direct visualization of the uterus, ovaries, and endometrium. It can detect fibroids, ovarian cysts, and endometrial thickening early.
Transabdominal ultrasound is also an option and suitable for unmarried women.
- Breast examination (physical examination + ultrasound/mammography). Breast diseases are closely related to gynecology.
Breast hyperplasia, nodules, and even early breast cancer can be detected through a physical examination.