What to Expect During a Pelvic Exam and Pap Smear
If this is your first time hearing about a pelvic exam or Pap smear, it’s totally normal to feel a little nervous or unsure. At County Obstetrics & Gynecology, we want you to feel informed, comfortable, and in control every step of the way.
Why You Might Need a Pelvic Exam or Pap Smear
A pelvic exam helps your doctor check that your reproductive organs—like your uterus and ovaries—are healthy.
A Pap smear (or Pap test) is a specific part of the pelvic exam that checks for early signs of changes on your cervix that could lead to cervical cancer.
Pap smears usually start around age 21 or later, depending on your medical history or any concerns you may have. If you’re younger, your visit might not include one—but we’ll always explain what’s needed and why.
Step-by-Step Guide to Pelvic Exam: What Happens
You’ll Have Time to Talk
Before anything happens, your doctor will sit down with you to talk—about your health, your periods, any symptoms, and your questions. Nothing happens without your understanding and permission.
Changing Clothes
You’ll be given a private space and a gown to change into. You’ll be asked to undress from the waist down and cover up with a drape or blanket. Your comfort and privacy are a priority.
Lying Back and Relaxing
You’ll lie on an exam table with your feet resting in supports called stirrups. This helps the doctor gently examine your pelvic area. Take deep breaths—it’s okay to feel nervous, and your doctor will help guide you through.
External Exam
The doctor first looks at the outside of your genital area (called the vulva) to check that everything looks healthy. This part is quick and painless.
Speculum Exam (for Pap Smear or internal check)
If you’re getting a Pap smear, the doctor will gently insert a tool called a speculum into your vagina. It helps open the vaginal walls slightly so the doctor can see your cervix, which is the lower part of your uterus. You might feel a little pressure—like a quick squeeze—but it shouldn’t hurt.
Pap Smear
Once the cervix is visible, the doctor will use a small, soft brush or swab to gently collect a few cells from the surface. It only takes a few seconds. Some people say it feels like a light tickle or slight cramp, but it’s over very quickly.
Bimanual Exam
To check your internal organs (like your uterus and ovaries), the doctor may insert one or two gloved fingers into your vagina while gently pressing on your belly with the other hand. This helps them feel the size, shape, and position of your organs. It might feel a bit odd, but it shouldn’t be painful.
After the Exam
You can get dressed right away.
The doctor will talk to you about what they found and let you know when to expect Pap smear results (usually in a week or two).
You’re encouraged to ask any questions—no topic is too small or too personal.
A Message for You
It’s completely normal to feel nervous or unsure about your first pelvic exam or Pap smear. At County Obstetrics & Gynecology, you’re in the care of board-certified physicians with decades of experience helping women through every stage of life—including their very first visit.
We specialize in providing care that’s not only medically thorough, but also kind, respectful, and tailored to your comfort. Every exam is done with sensitivity and compassion, and nothing happens without your full understanding and consent.
Our goal is to help you feel informed, empowered, and supported—because your health, privacy, and peace of mind matter to us. No question is too small, and we’re here to make sure you feel safe every step of the way.
You’ve got this—and we’ve got you.
County Obstetrics & Gynecology
STL Leaders in Women’s Healthcare
Board Certified Physician:
Dr. Lawrence V. Boveri
Dr. Stephen A. Boveri
Our Location
1859 Bowles Avenue
Suite 103
Fenton, MO 63026
Our Hours:
Monday: 9:00 – 5:00
Tuesday: 9:00 – 5:00
Wednesday: 9:00 – 5:00
Thursday: 9:00 – 3:00
Friday: 9:00 – 12:00