Female Genitalia: Anatomy and Normal Findings

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Questions and Answers

In the context of female pelvic anatomy, the vestibule is most accurately defined as the:

  • boat-shaped fossa between the labia minora, housing the urethral meatus and vaginal introitus. (correct)
  • collective term for the external female genitalia, encompassing the mons pubis, labia, and clitoris.
  • fibromuscular canal extending from the introitus to the uterus, characterized by transverse rugae.
  • adipose tissue folds forming the outer lips of the vagina, homologous to the male scrotum.

During a routine pelvic examination of a healthy, asymptomatic woman, palpation of the adnexa reveals a mobile, mildly tender, almond-shaped structure. This finding most likely represents the:

  • uterus in an anteverted, anteflexed position.
  • palpable ovary within expected parameters. (correct)
  • normal, non-palpable fallopian tube.
  • physiologically enlarged Bartholin gland.

The rectouterine pouch, or pouch of Douglas, is clinically significant because it:

  • forms the anterior fornix of the vagina, facilitating sperm deposition near the cervix.
  • directly communicates with the peritoneal cavity, allowing for potential fluid accumulation and palpation. (correct)
  • houses the Bartholin glands, which are critical for vaginal lubrication during intercourse.
  • provides structural support to the uterus through the uterosacral ligaments, preventing uterine prolapse.

In performing an external examination of the female genitalia, excoriations and erythematous maculopapules at the base of pubic hairs are highly suggestive of:

<p>pediculosis pubis. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During speculum insertion, directing the closed speculum approximately 30 degrees downward towards the cervix initially is crucial to:

<p>navigate the anatomical curve of the vagina and avoid the more sensitive anterior vaginal wall. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When inspecting the cervix through a speculum, a yellowish discharge emanating from the cervical os is most indicative of:

<p>mucopurulent cervicitis. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

To effectively assess for anterior vaginal wall defects, such as cystoceles, during a speculum examination, the MOST appropriate technique is to:

<p>use the lower blade of the speculum as a retractor while instructing the patient to bear down. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a newborn female infant, a milky white vaginal discharge, occasionally blood-tinged, observed in the first few weeks of life is primarily attributed to:

<p>maternal hormonal withdrawal. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Labial adhesions in prepubertal girls are considered a normal variant primarily because they:

<p>often resolve spontaneously without intervention as estrogen levels increase during puberty. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A speculum examination in a prepubertal child is generally contraindicated EXCEPT in cases of:

<p>suspected severe trauma or foreign body in the vagina. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Precocious adrenarche in a female child is characterized by the appearance of pubic hair before the age of:

<p>7 years. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Menarche, the onset of menstruation, typically occurs in adolescent girls within which age range in developed countries?

<p>9 to 16 years. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Primary dysmenorrhea is pathophysiologically distinguished from secondary dysmenorrhea by its:

<p>etiology primarily attributed to increased prostaglandin production during the luteal phase. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is characterized by symptom onset during which phase of the menstrual cycle?

<p>In the 5 days prior to menses. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Secondary amenorrhea is BEST defined as the:

<p>cessation of menses for at least 6 months in a woman with previously established regular cycles. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Menorrhagia is most accurately defined as:

<p>prolonged or excessively heavy menstrual bleeding. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the USPSTF 2018 cervical cancer screening guidelines for average-risk women, cytology-based screening alone is recommended at what frequency for women aged 21-29 years?

<p>Every 3 years. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

For average-risk women aged 30-65 years, the USPSTF guidelines offer several cervical cancer screening options EXCEPT:

<p>high-risk HPV testing alone every 3 years. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Average-risk criteria for cervical cancer screening, as defined by the USPSTF, explicitly exclude women with a history of:

<p>in utero exposure to diethylstilbestrol (DES). (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The Tanner stages of pubic hair development are used to assess:

<p>sexual maturity in adolescents. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of pediatric female genitalia examination, the frog-leg position is primarily utilized to:

<p>facilitate visualization of the hymen and vaginal introitus in infants and young children. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During a rectovaginal examination, the primary anatomical structure palpated posteriorly to the cervix is the:

<p>rectouterine pouch (pouch of Douglas). (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The Graves speculum is generally preferred over the Pedersen speculum in:

<p>parous women with vaginal prolapse. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Prior to obtaining cervical cytology, lubricants or gels should be used sparingly or avoided during speculum insertion primarily because they may:

<p>interfere with the adherence of cells to the cytology collection device and slide preparation. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the bimanual examination, uterine position is assessed by:

<p>simultaneously palpating the uterus between abdominal and vaginal hands. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Palpation of Bartholin glands is correctly performed by inserting the index finger inside the:

<p>posterior introitus and palpating against the posterior labium majus. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The primary function of the fimbriae of the fallopian tube is to:

<p>collect the oocyte from the periovarian peritoneal cavity after ovulation. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The vaginal fornix is anatomically defined as the:

<p>cup-shaped recess surrounding the cervix. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a woman with a retroverted uterus, during speculum examination, the cervix is typically oriented:

<p>more anteriorly than in an anteverted uterus. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The paraurethral glands (Skene glands) are anatomically located:

<p>just posterior and adjacent to the urethral meatus. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the absence of specific indications, routine pelvic examinations are NOT recommended for asymptomatic women younger than:

<p>21 years. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

An imperforate hymen in a newborn female is characterized by:

<p>a hymen that completely obstructs the vaginal opening. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Leukorrhea in a prepubertal child is typically described as:

<p>thin, white, and non-irritating vaginal discharge. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The knee-chest position is utilized in pediatric female genitalia examination primarily to:

<p>facilitate visualization of the hymen and vaginal opening, particularly in cases of suspected abuse. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In cases of suspected sexual abuse in a child, physical signs strongly suggestive of abuse include:

<p>lacerations, ecchymoses, and newly healed scars of the hymen. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The absence of hymenal tissue from the 3 to 9 o’clock position while the patient is supine is a physical finding considered:

<p>strongly suggestive of sexual abuse. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The term 'adnexa' in gynecological context refers collectively to the:

<p>ovaries, fallopian tubes, and their supporting tissues. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The primary hormones secreted by the ovaries are:

<p>estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The vaginal mucosa is characterized by transverse folds known as:

<p>rugae. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

For cervical cancer screening in average-risk women, screening is generally NOT recommended in women:

<p>younger than 21 years. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of uterine bleeding, metrorrhagia is best defined as:

<p>bleeding between menstrual periods. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The hymen in newborns and infants is described as a:

<p>thickened, avascular structure with a central orifice. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During external examination of the female genitalia, if labial swelling is reported, the next step should be to specifically examine the:

<p>Bartholin glands. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of a comprehensive gynecological examination, what is the paramount reason for explaining each step of the process to the patient beforehand?

<p>To minimize patient anxiety, foster trust, and encourage collaborative participation. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During a pelvic examination, what is the MOST critical consideration when determining whether to use a Pedersen or Graves speculum?

<p>The patient's parity and presence of vaginal prolapse, with the Graves speculum preferred for parous women. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When performing a bimanual examination, what is the MOST critical aspect of technique that dictates the accuracy and clinical utility of assessing uterine position and adnexal tenderness?

<p>Employing a gentle, coordinated approach between the abdominal and vaginal hands to palpate and sandwich the uterus and adnexa. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In cases of suspected sexual abuse in a prepubertal child, what is the MOST appropriate and nuanced approach to the gynecological examination?

<p>Utilizing the knee-chest position and/or saline drops to visualize the hymenal edges, while avoiding direct contact to minimize discomfort. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the underlying rationale for advising patients to avoid intercourse, douching, or the use of vaginal suppositories 24 to 48 hours before a gynecological examination?

<p>To ensure that the vaginal environment is in its most natural state, preventing alterations to cytology and obscuring potential pathology. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which examination technique is the MOST precise method for assessing the Bartholin glands in a patient reporting labial swelling?

<p>Bimanual palpation, inserting an index finger into the posterior introitus while placing the thumb externally on the posterior labium majus. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a newborn female presenting with ambiguous genitalia, what is the MOST critical, initial diagnostic consideration?

<p>Evaluation for congenital adrenal hyperplasia. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When performing a speculum examination, at what angle should the closed speculum be initially inserted to most effectively navigate the vaginal introitus without causing undue discomfort?

<p>Approximately 30 degrees downward toward the cervix. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In an adolescent female reporting primary dysmenorrhea, what underlying physiological mechanism is the PRIMARY driver of her symptoms?

<p>Increased prostaglandin production during the endometrial shedding phase. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the 2018 USPSTF guidelines, which cervical cancer screening strategy is recommended for women aged 30 to 65 years who prefer cytology-based screening?

<p>Cytology alone every 3 years. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the MOST reliable clinical signs that differentiate normal leukorrhea from pathological vaginal discharge in a prepubertal child?

<p>Color, odor, and presence of blood in the discharge. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a patient undergoing a rectovaginal examination, what is the PRIMARY anatomical landmark that allows differentiation between the uterosacral ligaments and the levator ani muscles?

<p>The rectouterine pouch (Pouch of Douglas). (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During adolescence, the Tanner stages are used to assess pubic hair development. Which of the following BEST describes Stage 3?

<p>Darker, coarser, curlier hair, spreading sparsely over the pubic symphysis. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is a speculum examination generally contraindicated in prepubertal children, EXCEPT under specific circumstances?

<p>The vaginal vault is highly susceptible to iatrogenic trauma due to lack of estrogenization. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is the MOST accurate description of the anatomical relationship of the adnexa?

<p>The adnexa refer to the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and their supporting tissues that are connected to the uterine fundus, facilitating oocyte transport and hormonal secretion. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Following the completion of a pelvic examination, the physician notes, "The patient has a retroverted uterus." How will the cervix appear when visualized through a speculum?

<p>Oriented more anteriorly than typically expected. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A 10-day-old newborn female presents with a milky white vaginal discharge. What is the underlying cause?

<p>Maternal hormone withdrawal. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

After infancy, how would you describe the hymenal membrane?

<p>Thin, translucent, and vascular, with the edges easily identified. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When is culturing for chlamydia indicated?

<p>When indicated by medical history. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following BEST explains why the labia majora and minora in light-skinned infants present with a dull pink color?

<p>Maternal hormone stimulation. (E)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What symptoms should raise suspicion for further evaluation of possible sexual abuse?

<p>The finding of vaginal bleeding is worrisome and warrants further evaluation. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When is a speculum examination necessary in a child?

<p>When there is suspicion of severe trauma or foreign body. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the BEST explanation for the absence of ever initiating periods?

<p>Primary amenorrhea. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Under what circumstances may normal ovaries be somewhat tender?

<p>During a bimanual examination. (E)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What factor may influence the timing and progression of puberty?

<p>Environmental factors, including socioeconomic conditions, nutrition and access to preventive health care. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the first stage of sexual maturity rating in girls?

<p>Preadolescent-no pubic hair except for the fine body hair (vellus hair) similar to that on the abdomen (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following BEST describes what should be assessed to perform an external examination of the female genitalia?

<p>Assess sexual maturity of an adolescent patient, examine the external genitalia. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a component of the female genitalia examination?

<p>Perform an external exam (E)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the best equipment to use for a patient with a small introitus such as a virgin or an elderly woman?

<p>The narrow-bladed Pedersen speculum (E)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When performing a bimanual exam, what should you be checking for when palpating the cervix?

<p>Position, shape, consistency, regularity, mobility, tenderness. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which factors are exclusionary criteria for 'average-risk' regarding cervical cancer screening per the USPSTF?

<p>History of high-grade, precancerous cervical lesion or cervical cancer. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What maneuver may be employed as a diagnostic aid while examining the genitalia of a child in order to relax the abdominal muscles?

<p>Ask the child to take a deep breath. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Menopause is BEST characterized by which statement?

<p>The absence of menses for 12 consecutive months, usually occurring between ages 48 and 55 years. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What BEST explains what dysmenorrhea is?

<p>Pain with menses, often with bearing down, aching, or cramping sensation in the lower abdomen or pelvis (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should the examiner be sure to do to ensure they are using excellent technique when inserting the speculum?

<p>Obtain Permission (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Where are excoriations often identified?

<p>At the bases of the pubic hairs (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During the external exam, what should be placed outside the posterior part of the labium majus?

<p>Thumb (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Vulva

Collective term for the external female genitalia, including the mons pubis, labia majora/minora, clitoris, vestibule, urethral meatus, introitus and perineum.

Labia majora

Rounded folds of adipose tissue forming the outer lips of the vagina.

Labia minora

Thinner, pinkish-red folds, or inner lips that extend anteriorly to form the prepuce.

Vestibule

Boat-shaped fossa between the labia minora that surrounds the opening of the urethra & vaginal opening.

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Introitus

Opening of the vagina.

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Perineum

Tissue between the introitus and the anus.

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Bartholin glands

Located posteriorly on both sides of the vaginal opening.

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Paraurethral (Skene) glands

Located just posterior and adjacent to the urethral meatus on either side.

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Vagina

Musculomembranous tube extending upward and posteriorly between the urinary bladder/urethra and the rectum.

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Vaginal fornix

Cup-shaped area where the upper vagina surrounds the cervix.

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Cervix

Firm, collagenous cylindrical organ connected to the uterus.

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Uterus

Thick-walled fibromuscular structure shaped like an inverted pear.

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Adnexa

Ovaries, fallopian tubes, and their supporting tissues.

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Fallopian tubes

Insert into the uterine fundus, and have a fanlike tip, the fimbria, that extends to the ovary.

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Ovaries

Almond-shaped glands that produce oocytes and secrete hormones.

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Rectouterine pouch (Pouch of Douglas)

Palpable on rectovaginal exam; area behind the uterus.

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Lithotomy position

Position used for pelvic examinations.

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Pedersen speculum

Best for women who are sexually active.

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Graves specula

Best for parous women with vaginal prolapse.

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Bartholin gland examination

Insert index finger inside the posterior introitus and thumb is placed outside the posterior part of the labium majus.

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Bimanual Examination

Used to assess uterus and ovaries by placing fingers in the vagina and the other hand on the abdomen.

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Rectovaginal Examination

Used to palpate the rectouterine pouch and assess pelvic pathology.

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Cervical Broom

Used collect a sample of cells from the cervix for cytological analysis.

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Labial Adhesions

Adhesions of the labia minora to each other at the midline.

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Examination for sexual abuse

Examination in Knee-chest position

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Menarche

The first occurrence of menstruation.

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Dysmenorrhea

Painful menstruation.

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Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

Symptoms prior to menses

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Amenorrhea

Absence of menstrual periods.

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Primary Amenorrhea

Absence of ever initiating periods.

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Secondary Amenorrhea

Cessation of periods after they have been established.

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Menorrhagia

Bleeding that is heavier or longer than usual.

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Metrorrhagia

Bleeding or spotting in between menstruation.

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Menometrorrhagia

A combination of menorrhagia and metrorrhagia.

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Average Risk (Cervical Cancer Screening)

No history of high-grade, precancerous cervical lesion or cervical cancer; not being immunocompromised; and having no in utero exposure to DES.

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Cervical Cancer Screening Frequency

Women ages 21 to 29 years

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Cervical Cancer Screening

Women ages 30 to 65 years

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When not to screen for cervical cancer

Women over 65 or post-hysterectomy

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Prominent genitalia in newborn female

Effects of maternal estrogen

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Assess sexual maturity

Adolescent examination of female genitalia.

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Prepuce (female)

Folds anterior to the clitoris where the labia minora meet.

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Clitoris

A small, cylindrical organ composed of erectile tissue.

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Urethral Meatus

Opening of the urethra.

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Vaginal Rugae

Transverse folds in the vaginal mucosa.

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Tanner Stages

Pubic hair distributed according to Tanner stages.

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Leukorrhea (newborn)

Milky white vaginal discharge in newborns.

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Genital exam on older child

Anxiety provoking examination, reassure child & parents.

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Hymen in newborns and infants

Thin, thickened avascular structure with a central orifice.

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Pubic hair before age 7

Considered precocious adrenarche and requires evaluation.

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Genital exam in children

Use calm, gentle approach and bright light.

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Hymenal Edges

Smooth edges indicate healing.

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Medium pederson speculum

Used for women who are sexually active

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Study Notes

Female Genitalia: Anatomy and Normal Findings

  • The term perineum also refers to the tissue between the inroitus and the anus.

Performing a Pelvic Examination

  • Encouraging the patient to relax is essential for an adequate examination.
  • Plan ahead for equipment and media culture needs before examination.
  • Box 21-3 provides tips for patients and clinicians to achieve a successful examination.

Patient Positioning

  • Drape the patient to maintain respect and comfort.
  • Have the patient slide down the examining table until the buttocks extend slightly beyond the edge.
  • Ensure the patient's head is supported with a pillow.

External Examination Technique

  • Excoriations or itchy, small, red maculopapules at the base of pubic hairs suggest pubic lice.
  • An enlarged clitoris is seen in masculinizing endocrine disorders.
  • Inspect the urethral meatus for urethral caruncle, prolapse of the urethral mucosa, and tenderness suggesting interstitial cystitis.
  • See Table 21-1, Lesions of the Vulva, p. 719 for descriptions of herpes simplex, Behçet disease, syphilitic chancre, and epidermoid cyst.

Internal Examination Technique

  • Separating the labia minora and introducing the speculum insert at a 30° downward angle facilitates entry toward the cervix.
  • Enlarging the vaginal introitus by lubricating one finger with water and applying downward pressure helps some clinicians.
  • Palpate the location of the cervix to angle the speculum more accurately.
  • After speculum placement, remove fingers from the introitus.
  • Rotate the speculum into a horizontal position while maintaining posterior pressure.
  • Avoid prematurely opening the speculum blades.
  • Adjust the speculum until the cervix is in full view, securing it with the thumbscrew.
  • Uteri that are retroverted will cause the cervix to point more anteriorly.
  • Withdraw the speculum slowly, observing the vaginal walls, then secure the open psotion of speculum with thumnb.
  • Removing one of the speculum blades or using a single blade speculum helps in visualizing defects.
  • Use the lower blade as a retractor and have the patient bear down to help expose anterior vaginal wall defects.
  • Using the upper blade helps expose rectoceles.

Pediatric Female Genital Examination

  • Precocious adrenarche is the appearance of pubic hair before the age of 7 and requires evaluation.
  • Note the labia minora, urethra, hymen and proximal vagina's condition.
  • Encourage the child to take deep breaths to relax abdominal muscles and assess the hymen.
  • Avoid touching the hymenal edges during examination.
  • Note findings like discharge, labial adhesions, lesions, estrogenation, and hymenal variations.
  • Some physical findings suggest the possibility of sexual abuse and require more complete evaluation by an expert.

Gynecological Terminology

  • Assess flow by the numbers of pads or tampons used, noting that women have varying definitions.
  • Ask about soaking pads or tampons, using both at the same time, bleeding between periods, or bleeding after intercourse.
  • Dates of previous menstrual periods are clues to pregnancy and menstrual irregularities.
  • Ask history about any associated symptoms of dysmenorrhea.
  • Criteria for PMS diagnosis include symptoms and signs in the 5 days prior to menses for at least three consecutive cycles, cessation of symptoms and signs within 4 days after onset of menses and interference with daily activities.

Cervical Cancer Screening Guidelines

  • USPSTF reissued guidelines on cervical cancer screening for average-risk women in 2018.
  • The guidelines included primary high-risk HPV testing beginning at age 25.
  • The American College of Physicians found no evidence supporting screening with routine pelvic examinations alone.

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