Physical examination of the female internal and external genitalia with and without pelvic organ prolapse: A review. Issue 3 (25th September 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Pahwa, Avita K.; Siegelman, Evan S.; Arya, Lily A.
• Is Part Of: Clinical anatomy. Volume 28:Issue 3(2015:Apr.)
• Page Start: 305
• Page End: 313
• Publication Date: 2014-09-25
• Subjects: Anatomy -- Periodicals; Anatomy -- Periodicals; 611
• DOI: 10.1002/ca.22472
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0897-3806

Abstract

<abstract abstract-type="main"> <title> <x xml:space="preserve">Abstract</x> </title> <p>Pelvic organ prolapse, a herniation of pelvic organs through the vagina, is a common condition in older women. Pelvic organ prolapse distorts vaginal anatomy making pelvic examination difficult. A clinician must accurately identify anatomic landmarks both in women presenting with symptoms of prolapse and in women noted to have coincidental prolapse during routine gynecologic examination. We present a systematic approach to the female pelvic examination including anatomic landmarks of the external genitalia, vagina, and uterus in women with normal support as well as changes that occur with pelvic organ prolapse. Knowledge and awareness of normal anatomic landmarks will improve a clinician's ability to identify defects in pelvic support and allow for better diagnosis and treatment of pelvic organ prolapse. Clin. Anat. 28:305–313, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.</p> </abstract>