As your due date approaches, the excitement of meeting your baby can be mixed with feelings of nervousness and anxiety. One aspect of labor that many expectant moms find particularly uncomfortable and even embarrassing is the internal exam. But don't worry! Understanding what this exam entails and how to approach it can help ease your anxiety and make the process smoother for both you and your doctor.
What is an Internal Exam?
An internal exam (or vaginal exam) is a routine procedure performed by your doctor during labor to assess how your body is progressing toward delivery. Unlike many other prenatal exams, the internal exam is typically not performed unless you're in labor. It involves the doctor gently inserting two fingers into your vagina to assess the state of your cervix and determine how far along you are in the delivery process.
During the exam, your doctor will check several things:
- Cervical dilation: How open your cervix is, measured in centimeters.
- Cervical effacement: How much your cervix has thinned out.
- Baby's position: Whether your baby is positioned correctly for delivery.
- Pelvic structure: Checking for any abnormalities that could affect delivery.
How to Prepare and Cope with the Exam
It’s natural to feel nervous about the internal exam, but understanding how to properly prepare and how to stay relaxed can make the experience much easier.
1. Empty Your Bladder:
Before the exam, make sure you’ve gone to the bathroom to empty your bladder. A full bladder can make the exam uncomfortable and may interfere with the doctor’s ability to assess your cervix properly.
2. Relax Your Body:
When the exam is about to begin, it’s essential to relax your body, especially your pelvic area. Doctors recommend lying flat on your back with your legs open. Take deep breaths and try to stay as calm as possible. The more relaxed you are, the quicker and less uncomfortable the exam will be.
3. Trust Your Doctor:
Although the internal exam might feel awkward or uncomfortable, it’s important to remember that your doctor’s goal is to ensure a safe and smooth delivery for both you and your baby. If you stay calm and cooperate, the exam usually takes no more than a minute.
4. Don’t Worry About the Doctor’s Gender:
It’s completely normal to feel uncomfortable if the doctor performing the internal exam is a man. However, most doctors are fully professional and respectful during the procedure. If you feel strongly about having a female doctor, don’t hesitate to request one ahead of time, as they will respect your preference.
Key Tips for a Smoother Internal Exam:
- Stay calm and breathe deeply. Tension can make the exam last longer and feel more uncomfortable.
- Communicate with your doctor. If you’re feeling anxious or have concerns, let them know. They can adjust the process to make it more comfortable.
- Focus on the end goal. Remember that the internal exam is a small but necessary step to ensure your baby’s safe arrival.
While the internal exam during labor may feel uncomfortable or even a little embarrassing, it’s an essential part of ensuring a safe and successful delivery. By staying relaxed and cooperative, you can make the experience much easier on yourself. And always remember, your healthcare team is there to support you and help you through every step of the process. Focus on the ultimate reward: welcoming your healthy baby into the world.
