Female Anatomy Quiz: Vulva and Labia

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Questions and Answers

What is the structure located at the anterior junction of the labia minora?

Hymen

Bartholin’s gland

Clitoris (correct)

Mons pubis

What part of the female external genitalia is covered with hair after puberty?

Mons pubis (correct)

Clitoral hood

Vaginal orifice

Labia minora

Which structure is primarily involved in secreting fluids into the female urethra?

Clitoris

Skene’s glands (correct)

Labia majora

Bartholin’s gland

Where is the urethral meatus located relative to the clitoris?

2.5 cm posterior Signup and view all the answers

What structure forms the posterior boundary of the vestibule?

Vaginal orifice Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the labia majora?

To provide protective coverings Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following structures is not part of the vulva?

Vagina Signup and view all the answers

Which structure connects the anterior and posterior labial structures?

Frenulum Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'Gravida' refer to in obstetrics?

The number of pregnancies. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a symptom typically associated with menopause?

Frequent urination Signup and view all the answers

What is 'dysuria'?

Painful urination. Signup and view all the answers

What is an adverse effect commonly associated with hormone replacement therapy?

Fluid retention Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes stress incontinence?

Loss of urine during physical exertion. Signup and view all the answers

What does a Pap test primarily screen for?

Cervical abnormalities Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about vaginal discharge is true?

Increased discharge may suggest infection. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of assessing self-care behaviors in patients?

To understand their health practices. Signup and view all the answers

How does perimenopause typically present itself?

Hormonal shifts causing vasomotor instability. Signup and view all the answers

What potential risk is associated with the use of talcum powder in the genital area?

Higher risk for ovarian cancer. Signup and view all the answers

What does 'hematuria' indicate?

Blood in urine Signup and view all the answers

What factors can increase the risk of developing vaginitis?

Feminine hygiene products Signup and view all the answers

What is the psychological effect some women may fear after a hysterectomy?

Loss of sexual response Signup and view all the answers

Which description best matches 'urgency incontinence'?

Sudden, unresistable urge to urinate. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the Bartholin’s glands?

Secretion of lubricating mucus during intercourse Signup and view all the answers

What term describes the meeting point of the smooth, pink stratified squamous epithelium and the columnar epithelium in the cervix?

Squamocolumnar junction Signup and view all the answers

Which structure is described as a thin, circular fold that may cover part of the vaginal orifice?

Hymen Signup and view all the answers

At what stage of sexual maturity does breast and pubic hair development typically begin in girls?

Stage 2 Signup and view all the answers

How long is the vagina in an average adult woman?

9 cm Signup and view all the answers

What is a typical dimension of the uterus in an adult woman?

5.5 to 8 cm long by 3.5 to 4 cm wide Signup and view all the answers

What physiological changes typically occur in the cervix during early pregnancy?

Softening and cyanosis of the cervical mucosa Signup and view all the answers

What is considered a sign of labor known as the 'bloody show'?

Dislodging of the mucous plug Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following structures is located posterior to the vaginal orifice?

Bartholin’s glands Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the first signs of puberty in girls?

Development of pubic hair Signup and view all the answers

What anatomical position does the uterus typically take in a nonpregnant woman?

Anteverted and anteflexed Signup and view all the answers

What is the length of the fallopian tubes in an average adult woman?

10 cm Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following events occurs after menarche?

Uterine body flexes on the cervix Signup and view all the answers

What change in the cervical canal happens during pregnancy?

Formation of the mucous plug Signup and view all the answers

What is the duration after which infertility is considered in women?

1 year of unprotected intercourse Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following STI prevention methods offers protection against HIV?

Condoms for vaginal and anal intercourse Signup and view all the answers

What sign might indicate a child is being sexually abused?

A sudden change in demeanor Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential red flag indicating human trafficking?

Being isolated from family or friends Signup and view all the answers

Which symptom might indicate a genital problem in a child?

Genital itching or rash Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about oral contraceptives and smoking is accurate?

Smoking increases the risk of vascular issues when using oral contraceptives. Signup and view all the answers

When should a health provider perform a full assessment for human trafficking?

If the patient answers 'yes' to preliminary screening questions Signup and view all the answers

What is a recommended approach when discussing puberty with a child?

Provide direct, age-appropriate information. Signup and view all the answers

What is a recommended practice for discussing sexual activity with adolescents?

Use behavior-specific language for clarity. Signup and view all the answers

What should health care providers assess regarding a child's urination?

Pain, frequency, and prior infections. Signup and view all the answers

What role does Lactobacillus acidophilus play in vaginal health during pregnancy?

It converts glycogen into lactic acid, increasing acidity. Signup and view all the answers

What should a nurse refrain from doing when assessing sexual behavior in young children?

Making assumptions based on age. Signup and view all the answers

What is the typical age range for the onset of menopause?

35 to 60 years Signup and view all the answers

Which of these actions helps in assessing a patient's risk for STIs?

Assessing their use of protection during intercourse. Signup and view all the answers

What is a crucial factor for women when discussing contraceptive options?

Individual history of health complications. Signup and view all the answers

What happens to the uterus during menopause as estrogen levels decrease?

It shrinks in size. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a consequence of decreased estrogen levels during menopause?

Atrophy of the vaginal epithelium. Signup and view all the answers

How does urinary incontinence impact older women's quality of life?

It can lead to skin rashes and urinary tract infections. Signup and view all the answers

What major physical changes occur in the reproductive tract due to decreased estrogen during menopause?

The cervix shrinks and becomes paler. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes period poverty?

The inability to afford menstrual hygiene products. Signup and view all the answers

What does female genital cutting (FGC) typically involve?

Removal of part or all of the external female genitalia. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a long-term health implication of female genital cutting?

Painful menstruation and sexual difficulties. Signup and view all the answers

What is a contributing factor to the risk of vaginitis in older women?

Decreased vaginal secretions and increased pH. Signup and view all the answers

What tends to happen to public hair in older women?

It becomes thin and sparse. Signup and view all the answers

What can result from a lack of sexual activity during menopause?

Vaginal atrophy leading to decreased size. Signup and view all the answers

Why might older women face challenges in their sexual relationships?

They often outnumber older men and struggle to find partners. Signup and view all the answers

What psychological challenge may older women face as a result of urinary incontinence?

Reduced psychological well-being. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary health risk associated with human trafficking for women and girls?

Injury from physical abuse Signup and view all the answers

Which age group has the highest reported cases of chlamydia in Canada?

15 to 24 years Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of HIV cases diagnosed in Canada in 2021 were among women?

25% Signup and view all the answers

What major health issue do immigrant women from developing countries face regarding cervical cancer?

Lack of regular screening Signup and view all the answers

What complicates urinary health in transgender women who have undergone vaginoplasty?

Frequent urinary tract infections Signup and view all the answers

Which group has a higher incidence and mortality rate from cervical cancer in Canada?

Indigenous women Signup and view all the answers

What is a key factor in the mental health of survivors of human trafficking?

Trauma-informed care Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary reason for higher UTI rates in women compared to men?

Shorter female urethra Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is not a potential consequence of untreated chlamydia in women?

Cervical cancer Signup and view all the answers

Which STI is more commonly reported among lesbian and bisexual women?

Bacterial vaginosis Signup and view all the answers

What health behavior should be promoted among transgender patients regarding cancer screenings?

Screening follows current guidelines regardless of anatomy Signup and view all the answers

During a health assessment, which question would best initiate discussion regarding menstrual health?

Tell me about your menstrual periods. Signup and view all the answers

What is considered a risk factor for the development of urinary tract infections (UTIs)?

Short female urethra Signup and view all the answers

What should nurses consider when assessing a transgender patient medically?

Use relevant terminology based on anatomy present Signup and view all the answers

Which statement is true regarding the healthcare access of human trafficking survivors?

They require culturally sensitive approaches. Signup and view all the answers

What is the typical hair distribution pattern in females during puberty?

Inverted triangle shape Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic indicates an abnormal finding in the labia majora of nulliparous women?

Uneven symmetry Signup and view all the answers

Which procedure is advised if nits or lice are found at the base of pubic hair?

Eradicate immediately Signup and view all the answers

What is considered an appropriate range for the appearance of the urethral opening?

Stellate or slitlike Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following findings would suggest normal conditions in the labia minora?

Dark pink and moist appearance Signup and view all the answers

What is a recommended practice for women who have received the HPV vaccine?

They should continue participating in cervical cancer screening programs. Signup and view all the answers

Which speculum is designed with narrow blades for specific patient needs?

Pederson speculum Signup and view all the answers

What is the normal characteristic of the perineum in a nulliparous woman?

Thick, smooth, and muscular Signup and view all the answers

What should be done to help a patient feel more comfortable during the lithotomy position?

Cover them fully with drapes except for the vulva. Signup and view all the answers

Which type of female genital cutting involves the partial or total removal of the clitoral glans?

Type 1 Signup and view all the answers

What is the characteristic shape of the os in a nulliparous individual?

Smooth rounded Signup and view all the answers

What is indicated by induration along the urethra during palpation?

Possible infection or disorder Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT included among the required materials for cytological study?

Bacterial culture medium Signup and view all the answers

Which variation of the os is described as having a horizontal slit that runs from end to end?

Bilateral transverse Signup and view all the answers

How can a nurse reduce a patient's anxiety before an examination?

By explaining each step in the examination beforehand. Signup and view all the answers

When palpating Bartholin’s glands, what should be the expected finding?

Soft and homogeneous Signup and view all the answers

What does cervical eversion look like around the os?

Its region appears inflamed in a patch Signup and view all the answers

During a pelvic examination, what position should a patient be in for proper palpation of the internal genitalia?

Lithotomy position Signup and view all the answers

What is a common approach to assist patients who may have experienced sexual violence?

Employ a trauma-informed approach to care. Signup and view all the answers

What is the appropriate action if vaginal walls bulge upon straining?

Investigate for potential issues Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of palpating the vagina during an examination?

To check for signs of infection Signup and view all the answers

What position should a patient be in during a vaginal examination?

Lithotomy position with feet in stirrups. Signup and view all the answers

What appearance should the vaginal opening have in a normal examination?

Narrow vertical slit or larger opening Signup and view all the answers

How should the speculum be held during insertion?

Firmly with both hands Signup and view all the answers

At what age is it typical to start performing periodic Pap tests?

Age 25 years Signup and view all the answers

What equipment is suggested for vaginal examinations?

Goose-necked lamp with a strong light. Signup and view all the answers

Which option is a good practice to establish rapport before examination?

Position the patient in an equal-status manner. Signup and view all the answers

What anatomical position describes a uterus that tilts backward?

Retroflexed Signup and view all the answers

What effect does applying pressure downward during speculum insertion have?

Relax the introitus and pubococcygeal muscles Signup and view all the answers

What action should be taken prior to using a speculum during examination?

Warm and lubricate it Signup and view all the answers

What type of touch should a nurse use during the examination for better interaction?

Gentle, firm touch with gradual movements. Signup and view all the answers

How should a toddler be positioned during a genital examination?

In the frog-leg position on a parent’s lap Signup and view all the answers

What is the lecture on ambiguous genitalia primarily concerned with?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to inform a patient about examination steps?

To build trust and reduce anxiety. Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if a patient feels discomfort during the examination?

The examination can be stopped at any time. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an appropriate procedure following the examination of the external genitalia of school-aged children?

External examination is usually sufficient Signup and view all the answers

What change is normal in infants' genitalia due to maternal estrogen?

Transient engorgement Signup and view all the answers

What is a method to allow patients to see during a pelvic examination?

Using a mirror placed between their legs. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of the HPV vaccine?

To prevent cervical and other cancers caused by HPV. Signup and view all the answers

What is the typical appearance of a hymen in young girls?

Perforate Signup and view all the answers

Which age group is recommended to receive the HPV vaccine according to most provinces?

Males and females aged 9-14 years. Signup and view all the answers

What does the presence of foul-smelling discharge in toddlers typically indicate?

Vaginal infection or foreign body Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about HPV screening in Canada is true?

Individuals aged 70 may cease cervical screening if previous results were satisfactory. Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended immunization schedule for males aged 9 to 14 years?

A two to three-dose schedule of Gardasil HPV4 vaccine is recommended. Signup and view all the answers

Which condition is NOT typically associated with atrophic vaginitis?

Postmenopausal vaginal bleeding. Signup and view all the answers

Which risk factor is strongly associated with cervical cancer development?

Infection with HPV. Signup and view all the answers

What change in sexual health is commonly experienced by older women?

A decline in libido and difficulty maintaining arousal. Signup and view all the answers

How does the introduction of HPV vaccines impact cervical cancer rates?

It has substantially reduced the risk of invasive cervical cancer at the population level. Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended cervical cancer screening frequency for women aged 25 to 69 years?

Every 3 years. Signup and view all the answers

What is a major misconception that may cause reluctance to undergo cervical screening?

Belief that HPV vaccines eliminate the need for screening. Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'atrophic vaginitis' refer to?

Inflammation of the vagina due to decreased estrogen. Signup and view all the answers

Which is a potential indicator of cervical cancer that warrants further investigation?

Postmenopausal vaginal bleeding. Signup and view all the answers

What factors may contribute to the reluctance of individuals to undergo cervical cancer screening?

Knowledge and access to screening. Signup and view all the answers

Which is NOT a recommended practice regarding HPV vaccination?

Only females need the HPV vaccine. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common change older adults may notice regarding their sexual relationships?

Changes in sexual relationship dynamics may occur. Signup and view all the answers

What color and texture can the mature squamous epithelium of the ectocervix be identified as?

Pale pink, shiny, and smooth Signup and view all the answers

In postmenopausal women, what happens to the squamo-columnar junction (SCJ)?

It often recedes into the endocervical canal Signup and view all the answers

What technique is recommended for spreading a specimen from a spatula onto a slide?

Using a single stroke to thin out the specimen Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of using an endocervical brush instead of a cotton applicator?

To obtain a higher yield of endocervical cells Signup and view all the answers

How should the endocervical brush be rotated when collecting a specimen?

720 degrees in one direction only Signup and view all the answers

What is a contraindication for using an endocervical brush?

Pregnant women Signup and view all the answers

What characteristics define abnormal vaginal discharge due to candidiasis?

Thick, white, and curdlike Signup and view all the answers

Which procedure is performed to obtain a gonorrhea/chlamydia culture?

Insert a sterile cotton swab and rotate it 360 degrees Signup and view all the answers

What should be done immediately after collecting a specimen on a slide?

Spray the slide with fixative Signup and view all the answers

What does liquid-based cytology (LBC) involve?

Putting samples in a liquid preservative medium Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of using a cervical broom during a pelvic exam?

To sample the exocervix and endocervix simultaneously Signup and view all the answers

What is the normal consistency of the cervix during a pelvic examination in a non-pregnant state?

Smooth and firm Signup and view all the answers

During a bimanual examination, what position should the patient remain in?

Lithotomy position Signup and view all the answers

Which position of the uterus is considered the most common variation?

Anteverted Signup and view all the answers

What condition is indicated by leukoplakia during a vaginal examination?

Dried white spots that require investigation Signup and view all the answers

What information is crucial to label on the specimen slide?

The patient’s name Signup and view all the answers

What is an abnormal finding when palpating the uterus during a bimanual examination?

Tenderness upon palpation Signup and view all the answers

What indicates a potential ectopic pregnancy during a pelvic examination?

Pulsation or palpable fallopian tube Signup and view all the answers

What position should a transgender woman be placed in for a pelvic examination?

Gender-affirming lithotomy position Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic of the cervix is considered abnormal?

Cervix projects more than 3cm into the vagina Signup and view all the answers

What is an appropriate action if abnormal adnexal structures are suspected during examination?

Refer the patient for further study Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if the cervix is not in full view after opening the speculum?

Close the blades and withdraw halfway Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic of the cervix may indicate pregnancy during examination?

It feels soft and velvety Signup and view all the answers

What should be avoided before obtaining a Pap test?

Douching Signup and view all the answers

During a rectovaginal examination, how should the rectovaginal septum normally feel?

Smooth and pliable Signup and view all the answers

How should a healthcare professional position their hands during a bimanual examination?

One hand intravaginally and the other on the abdomen Signup and view all the answers

Which feature is indicative of good cervix health during a pelvic exam?

Pink and even cervical mucosa Signup and view all the answers

What does Chadwick's sign indicate during a cervical examination?

Pregnancy Signup and view all the answers

What sensation is typically felt when adequately palpating the adnexa?

Smooth and almond-shaped Signup and view all the answers

What feature is commonly associated with nabothian cysts?

Small, smooth, yellow nodules Signup and view all the answers

What should you instruct a patient to avoid doing before a cervical smear?

Douching or having intercourse Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic might suggest malignancy when assessing the cervix?

Hardness and nodularity Signup and view all the answers

Which statement is true regarding cervical secretions?

They may vary in consistency depending on the menstrual cycle. Signup and view all the answers

During which step of a rectovaginal examination must the patient be instructed to bear down?

Insertion of the middle finger into the rectum Signup and view all the answers

What is a common sign of cervical polyp?

Bright red growth protruding from the os Signup and view all the answers

What abnormality should not be mistaken for a normal structure when palpating the adnexa?

Identifying an abnormal mass Signup and view all the answers

What is an appropriate action when the cervix is everted?

Consider it a normal finding post-delivery Signup and view all the answers

When assessing the uterus, which position is usually NOT considered normal?

Lateral displacement Signup and view all the answers

How should the spatula be inserted during a cervical scrape?

Bifid end with pointed bump into the cervical os Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect is critical to visualize during a cervical examination?

Cervix in full view Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the Pap test?

Screen for cervical cancer Signup and view all the answers

Which symptom is commonly associated with endometriosis?

Chronic pelvic pain Signup and view all the answers

What type of lesion is typically associated with ovarian cancer?

Solid tumor Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential complication of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)?

Ectopic pregnancy Signup and view all the answers

What clinical finding is indicative of ectopic pregnancy?

Softening of cervix and fundus Signup and view all the answers

What can be a non-specific symptom of endometriosis?

Low back pain Signup and view all the answers

Which description best characterizes a fluctuant ovarian cyst?

Mobile and asymptomatic Signup and view all the answers

Which signs might indicate the presence of ambiguous genitalia?

Enlarged clitoris and fused labia Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about ovarian cancer is true?

Heavy, solid mass suggests malignancy Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary causative agent of acute salpingitis?

Chlamydia trachomatis Signup and view all the answers

What is the first step in the summary checklist for female genitalia examination?

Inspect external genitalia Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of using the patient’s own body to teach anatomy and sexual behavior?

It helps to remove any embarrassment associated with the topics. Signup and view all the answers

At 28 weeks of pregnancy, where should the fundus be located?

Halfway between the umbilicus and the xiphoid process. Signup and view all the answers

Which sign indicates increased vascularity during pregnancy?

Chadwick’s sign. Signup and view all the answers

What physical change occurs to the cervix in older women post-menopause?

It shrinks and looks pale and glistening. Signup and view all the answers

What can be a consequence of an ectopic pregnancy?

It can lead to hemorrhage and requires immediate care. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common change in vaginal walls observed in older women?

Walls appear pale pink due to thinned epithelium. Signup and view all the answers

Which symptom is commonly associated with Candida albicans infection?

Thick, white, curdlike discharge. Signup and view all the answers

What examination tool is recommended for older women with vaginal stenosis?

Pederson speculum. Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of vaginal health increases the risk of infection in older women?

Vaginal atrophy occurs. Signup and view all the answers

What should be noted about the adnexa during a bimanual examination in early pregnancy?

They are not usually palpable. Signup and view all the answers

How can health care providers help older women manage discomfort during examinations?

Advise taking analgesics before the visit. Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the characteristics of the near-term fundus position?

It has dropped as the fetal head engages in the pelvis. Signup and view all the answers

What might indicate the need for a biopsy during an examination?

Presence of any suspect lesions. Signup and view all the answers

What may indicate the presence of Diethylstilbestrol (DES) syndrome on the cervix?

Red, granular patches of columnar epithelium Signup and view all the answers

Which symptom is commonly associated with cervical carcinoma?

Postcoital bleeding Signup and view all the answers

What is a key characteristic of Atrophic Vaginitis?

Pale mucosa with abraded areas Signup and view all the answers

Which condition is associated with a 'strawberry' appearance of the vagina?

Trichomoniasis Signup and view all the answers

What type of discharge is typically present in Candidiasis?

Thick, white, curdy Signup and view all the answers

What is a possible sign of myomas (uterine fibroids)?

Heavy menorrhagia Signup and view all the answers

What diagnostic method is most commonly used to identify cervical carcinoma?

Pap smear Signup and view all the answers

What genital condition is characterized by thin, creamy, grey-white discharge and a 'fishy' odor?

Bacterial Vaginosis Signup and view all the answers

What might indicate an increased risk for endometrial carcinoma?

Early menarche Signup and view all the answers

Which symptom is NOT typically associated with Gonorrhea?

Intense itching Signup and view all the answers

A common predisposing factor for Candidiasis includes:

Long-term use of antibiotics Signup and view all the answers

What type of symptoms may indicate a poor prognosis in endometrial carcinoma?

Weight loss and pain Signup and view all the answers

Bleeding between menstrual periods is frequently a symptom of which condition?

Cervical carcinoma Signup and view all the answers

What is the most likely cause of elevated sensation of pressure and stress incontinence in the context of pelvic abnormalities?

Cystocele Signup and view all the answers

Which condition is characterized by clusters of small vesicles on the genital areas that may rupture and leave painful ulcers?

Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 Signup and view all the answers

What is typically observed in a pelvic examination of someone with a Rectocele?

Soft, round bulge from the posterior Signup and view all the answers

During a bimanual examination, what is the finding that would suggest a normal pelvic structure?

Absence of lesions and discharge Signup and view all the answers

What is a notable symptom of urethritis caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae?

Dysuria and purulent discharge Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following conditions is most often secondary to gonococcal infection?

Bartholin’s Gland Abscess Signup and view all the answers

What physical examination finding might indicate the presence of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) on the cervix?

Warty growth appearing as abnormal thickened white epithelium Signup and view all the answers

What symptom is associated with syphilitic chancre?

Nontender indurated base with serous discharge Signup and view all the answers

What is the expected outcome of a person with a known HPV infection regarding cervical cytology?

Increased risk of abnormal findings Signup and view all the answers

What risk factor is commonly associated with HPV infections among sexually active women?

Multiple sexual partners Signup and view all the answers

Which physical finding might indicate contact dermatitis?

Red, swollen vesicles that may weep Signup and view all the answers

In assessing an individual with possible pediculosis pubis, which symptom would you expect to find?

Severe perineal itching Signup and view all the answers

What unusual finding might be seen on the cervix during examination indicating erosion?

Inflammation with no ulceration Signup and view all the answers

What is the proper term for the cervix protruding outside of the introitus upon straining?

Second-degree prolapse Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Female External Genitalia

The vulva, or pudendum, is the collective term for the female external genitalia.
The mons pubis is a pad of adipose tissue covering the pubic symphysis, often covered in hair after puberty.
Labia majora are folds of adipose tissue extending from the mons pubis.
Labia minora are smaller, darker folds inside the labia majora.
The clitoris is an erectile body, homologous to the male penis, highly sensitive to touch.
Vestibule: space enclosed by labia, containing urethral meatus, Skene's glands, hymen, and Bartholin's glands openings.

Female Internal Genitalia

Vagina: flattened, tubular canal extending into the pelvis.
Rugae: transverse folds in the vaginal wall, allowing for dilation during childbirth.
Cervix: projects into the vagina; appearance varies based on parity.
Os: small circular opening in the cervix.
Fornix: recesses surrounding the cervix, including anterior and posterior fornices.
Rectouterine pouch (cul-de-sac of Douglas): deeper recess behind the posterior fornix.
Uterus: pear-shaped, thick-walled, muscular organ, typically anteverted and anteflexed.
Fallopian tubes: trumpet-shaped tubes extending from the uterine fundus to the ovaries, carrying the egg.
Ovaries: located on either side of the uterus, developing ova and hormones.

Developmental Considerations

Infants/Children: Genitalia are engorged at birth due to maternal hormones, receding within weeks.
Puberty: Estrogen stimulates growth, causing breast and pubic hair development (ages 8.5-13).
Menarche: First menstrual period, occurs after peak growth velocity.
Pregnancy: Cervix softens (Goodell's sign), vaginal mucosa and cervix appear bluish (Chadwick's sign); uterus enlarges; mucous plug forms.
Older Women: Rapid hormonal decline, menopause usually occurring between ages 48-51. Uterus, ovaries shrink; vagina shortens, narrows, atrophies.

Period poverty: Inability to afford menstrual products, impacting education and work.
Female Genital Cutting (FGC): Ritual removal of female genitalia, harmful and a violation of human rights.
Human Trafficking: Women and girls are often victims of sexual exploitation.
STIs: Rates of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis are rising, impacting women disproportionately.
HIV/AIDS: Women represent a significant portion of cases, often due to heterosexual contact or injection drug use.
Cervical Cancer: Rates declining in Canada but higher among women in less developed countries and Indigenous women.
UTIs: More common in women due to shorter urethra.

Pelvic Examination Techniques

Several aspects are considered including preparation (clearing the bladder, privacy), positioning (lithotomy), draping.
External Inspection: Skin color/lesions, hair distribution, labia size/symmetry, and any discharge are examined.
Palpation: Assess for tenderness, masses, and texture changes; specifically for Skene's and Bartholin's glands.
Speculum Exam: Using appropriate sized instruments, inspect vaginal walls, cervix, and obtain samples for Pap smears and cultures.
Bimanual Exam: Examiner assesses the uterus, ovaries, and adnexa for abnormalities and tenderness.
Rectovaginal Exam: Assess rectovaginal septum, posterior uterine wall, and cul-de-sac.

Specific Considerations

Transgender Women: Examinations are relevant to existing anatomy; use patient preferences/gender-affirming terms; identify and assess the neovagina.
Transgender Men: Vaginal estrogen administration may be warranted to reduce atrophy.
Pediatric Exams: Positioning and communication tailored to the age and developmental stage are essential.

Obtaining Specimens and Cultures

Pap Smears: Screening for cervical cancer.
STI Cultures: Screening for gonorrhea, chlamydia, and other STIs.
Other Specimens: Saline and KOH mounts, anal cultures, and additional diagnostic tests as needed.

Documentation and Critical Thinking

Subjective data (patient's history); Objective data (physical examination findings);
Assessment of abnormalities, risk factors, and diagnoses.

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Description

Test your knowledge on the anatomy of the female genitalia, focusing specifically on the structures of the vulva, including the labia minora and labia majora. This quiz covers key functions and locations of various reproductive elements.