Vulva self screening

Performing a vaginal self-exam at home can help you familiarize yourself with your own body, as all vaginas are different. It can also help you identify changes and abnormalities. A gynecologist can check you for symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases STDs and perform a Pap smear test to screen for cervical cancer. Here are the symptoms you can look out for and discuss with a gynecologist at your next appointment. Their purpose is to protect and enclose the external genital organs. The labia majora may be covered in pubic hair, which usually grows in during puberty.

You've probably already been told how important it is to conduct a self-examination of your breasts regularly, in order to ensure that no abnormal lumps or bumps have formed. What's less well known is that a vulvar self-exam—an at-home exam to check for possible abnormalities concerning your vulva—can also be worthwhile. By performing a vulvar self-exam, you'll be able to spot any abnormalities that may indicate infection, vulvar cancer, or other conditions before they become a larger problem. A vulvar self-exam can also be useful in teaching you what is normal in appearance for your vulva.

The appearance, shape, and size of genitals vary from person to person as much as the shape and size of other body parts. There is a wide range of what is considered normal. Observing your own body can help you to learn what is normal for you. The following descriptions will be much clearer if you look at your genitals with a hand mirror while you read the text. Make sure you have enough time and privacy to feel relaxed.

A genital self-exam can be a great way for you to explore and better understand your body in a safe and private setting such as your home. These exams involve using a mirror and bright lighting to help you get an up close, clear look at your vulva external female genitalia and all of its parts. Each vulva varies in size, shape, color, and smell—there is no standard of what your vulva should look like. Your vulva undergoes normal physical changes throughout the menstrual cycle , and if you are better able to understand these natural changes, it may be easier for you to observe unusual changes in color, texture, bumps, or smells. Regular self-exams are crucial because they increase the likelihood of discovering these physical changes and abnormalities, allowing you to discuss any changes with a physician as soon as possible.