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Questions and Answers
In the context of female pelvic anatomy, the vestibule is most accurately defined as the:
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:
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:
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:
In performing an external examination of the female genitalia, excoriations and erythematous maculopapules at the base of pubic hairs are highly suggestive of:
During speculum insertion, directing the closed speculum approximately 30 degrees downward towards the cervix initially is crucial to:
During speculum insertion, directing the closed speculum approximately 30 degrees downward towards the cervix initially is crucial to:
When inspecting the cervix through a speculum, a yellowish discharge emanating from the cervical os is most indicative of:
When inspecting the cervix through a speculum, a yellowish discharge emanating from the cervical os is most indicative of:
To effectively assess for anterior vaginal wall defects, such as cystoceles, during a speculum examination, the MOST appropriate technique is to:
To effectively assess for anterior vaginal wall defects, such as cystoceles, during a speculum examination, the MOST appropriate technique is to:
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:
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:
Labial adhesions in prepubertal girls are considered a normal variant primarily because they:
Labial adhesions in prepubertal girls are considered a normal variant primarily because they:
A speculum examination in a prepubertal child is generally contraindicated EXCEPT in cases of:
A speculum examination in a prepubertal child is generally contraindicated EXCEPT in cases of:
Precocious adrenarche in a female child is characterized by the appearance of pubic hair before the age of:
Precocious adrenarche in a female child is characterized by the appearance of pubic hair before the age of:
Menarche, the onset of menstruation, typically occurs in adolescent girls within which age range in developed countries?
Menarche, the onset of menstruation, typically occurs in adolescent girls within which age range in developed countries?
Primary dysmenorrhea is pathophysiologically distinguished from secondary dysmenorrhea by its:
Primary dysmenorrhea is pathophysiologically distinguished from secondary dysmenorrhea by its:
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is characterized by symptom onset during which phase of the menstrual cycle?
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is characterized by symptom onset during which phase of the menstrual cycle?
Secondary amenorrhea is BEST defined as the:
Secondary amenorrhea is BEST defined as the:
Menorrhagia is most accurately defined as:
Menorrhagia is most accurately defined as:
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?
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?
For average-risk women aged 30-65 years, the USPSTF guidelines offer several cervical cancer screening options EXCEPT:
For average-risk women aged 30-65 years, the USPSTF guidelines offer several cervical cancer screening options EXCEPT:
Average-risk criteria for cervical cancer screening, as defined by the USPSTF, explicitly exclude women with a history of:
Average-risk criteria for cervical cancer screening, as defined by the USPSTF, explicitly exclude women with a history of:
The Tanner stages of pubic hair development are used to assess:
The Tanner stages of pubic hair development are used to assess:
In the context of pediatric female genitalia examination, the frog-leg position is primarily utilized to:
In the context of pediatric female genitalia examination, the frog-leg position is primarily utilized to:
During a rectovaginal examination, the primary anatomical structure palpated posteriorly to the cervix is the:
During a rectovaginal examination, the primary anatomical structure palpated posteriorly to the cervix is the:
The Graves speculum is generally preferred over the Pedersen speculum in:
The Graves speculum is generally preferred over the Pedersen speculum in:
Prior to obtaining cervical cytology, lubricants or gels should be used sparingly or avoided during speculum insertion primarily because they may:
Prior to obtaining cervical cytology, lubricants or gels should be used sparingly or avoided during speculum insertion primarily because they may:
In the bimanual examination, uterine position is assessed by:
In the bimanual examination, uterine position is assessed by:
Palpation of Bartholin glands is correctly performed by inserting the index finger inside the:
Palpation of Bartholin glands is correctly performed by inserting the index finger inside the:
The primary function of the fimbriae of the fallopian tube is to:
The primary function of the fimbriae of the fallopian tube is to:
The vaginal fornix is anatomically defined as the:
The vaginal fornix is anatomically defined as the:
In a woman with a retroverted uterus, during speculum examination, the cervix is typically oriented:
In a woman with a retroverted uterus, during speculum examination, the cervix is typically oriented:
The paraurethral glands (Skene glands) are anatomically located:
The paraurethral glands (Skene glands) are anatomically located:
In the absence of specific indications, routine pelvic examinations are NOT recommended for asymptomatic women younger than:
In the absence of specific indications, routine pelvic examinations are NOT recommended for asymptomatic women younger than:
An imperforate hymen in a newborn female is characterized by:
An imperforate hymen in a newborn female is characterized by:
Leukorrhea in a prepubertal child is typically described as:
Leukorrhea in a prepubertal child is typically described as:
The knee-chest position is utilized in pediatric female genitalia examination primarily to:
The knee-chest position is utilized in pediatric female genitalia examination primarily to:
In cases of suspected sexual abuse in a child, physical signs strongly suggestive of abuse include:
In cases of suspected sexual abuse in a child, physical signs strongly suggestive of abuse include:
The absence of hymenal tissue from the 3 to 9 o’clock position while the patient is supine is a physical finding considered:
The absence of hymenal tissue from the 3 to 9 o’clock position while the patient is supine is a physical finding considered:
The term 'adnexa' in gynecological context refers collectively to the:
The term 'adnexa' in gynecological context refers collectively to the:
The primary hormones secreted by the ovaries are:
The primary hormones secreted by the ovaries are:
The vaginal mucosa is characterized by transverse folds known as:
The vaginal mucosa is characterized by transverse folds known as:
For cervical cancer screening in average-risk women, screening is generally NOT recommended in women:
For cervical cancer screening in average-risk women, screening is generally NOT recommended in women:
In the context of uterine bleeding, metrorrhagia is best defined as:
In the context of uterine bleeding, metrorrhagia is best defined as:
The hymen in newborns and infants is described as a:
The hymen in newborns and infants is described as a:
During external examination of the female genitalia, if labial swelling is reported, the next step should be to specifically examine the:
During external examination of the female genitalia, if labial swelling is reported, the next step should be to specifically examine the:
In the context of a comprehensive gynecological examination, what is the paramount reason for explaining each step of the process to the patient beforehand?
In the context of a comprehensive gynecological examination, what is the paramount reason for explaining each step of the process to the patient beforehand?
During a pelvic examination, what is the MOST critical consideration when determining whether to use a Pedersen or Graves speculum?
During a pelvic examination, what is the MOST critical consideration when determining whether to use a Pedersen or Graves speculum?
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?
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?
In cases of suspected sexual abuse in a prepubertal child, what is the MOST appropriate and nuanced approach to the gynecological examination?
In cases of suspected sexual abuse in a prepubertal child, what is the MOST appropriate and nuanced approach to the gynecological examination?
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?
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?
Which examination technique is the MOST precise method for assessing the Bartholin glands in a patient reporting labial swelling?
Which examination technique is the MOST precise method for assessing the Bartholin glands in a patient reporting labial swelling?
In a newborn female presenting with ambiguous genitalia, what is the MOST critical, initial diagnostic consideration?
In a newborn female presenting with ambiguous genitalia, what is the MOST critical, initial diagnostic consideration?
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?
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?
In an adolescent female reporting primary dysmenorrhea, what underlying physiological mechanism is the PRIMARY driver of her symptoms?
In an adolescent female reporting primary dysmenorrhea, what underlying physiological mechanism is the PRIMARY driver of her symptoms?
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?
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?
What are the MOST reliable clinical signs that differentiate normal leukorrhea from pathological vaginal discharge in a prepubertal child?
What are the MOST reliable clinical signs that differentiate normal leukorrhea from pathological vaginal discharge in a prepubertal child?
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?
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?
During adolescence, the Tanner stages are used to assess pubic hair development. Which of the following BEST describes Stage 3?
During adolescence, the Tanner stages are used to assess pubic hair development. Which of the following BEST describes Stage 3?
Why is a speculum examination generally contraindicated in prepubertal children, EXCEPT under specific circumstances?
Why is a speculum examination generally contraindicated in prepubertal children, EXCEPT under specific circumstances?
Which of the following is the MOST accurate description of the anatomical relationship of the adnexa?
Which of the following is the MOST accurate description of the anatomical relationship of the adnexa?
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?
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?
A 10-day-old newborn female presents with a milky white vaginal discharge. What is the underlying cause?
A 10-day-old newborn female presents with a milky white vaginal discharge. What is the underlying cause?
After infancy, how would you describe the hymenal membrane?
After infancy, how would you describe the hymenal membrane?
When is culturing for chlamydia indicated?
When is culturing for chlamydia indicated?
Which of the following BEST explains why the labia majora and minora in light-skinned infants present with a dull pink color?
Which of the following BEST explains why the labia majora and minora in light-skinned infants present with a dull pink color?
What symptoms should raise suspicion for further evaluation of possible sexual abuse?
What symptoms should raise suspicion for further evaluation of possible sexual abuse?
When is a speculum examination necessary in a child?
When is a speculum examination necessary in a child?
What is the BEST explanation for the absence of ever initiating periods?
What is the BEST explanation for the absence of ever initiating periods?
Under what circumstances may normal ovaries be somewhat tender?
Under what circumstances may normal ovaries be somewhat tender?
What factor may influence the timing and progression of puberty?
What factor may influence the timing and progression of puberty?
What is the first stage of sexual maturity rating in girls?
What is the first stage of sexual maturity rating in girls?
Which of the following BEST describes what should be assessed to perform an external examination of the female genitalia?
Which of the following BEST describes what should be assessed to perform an external examination of the female genitalia?
What is a component of the female genitalia examination?
What is a component of the female genitalia examination?
What is the best equipment to use for a patient with a small introitus such as a virgin or an elderly woman?
What is the best equipment to use for a patient with a small introitus such as a virgin or an elderly woman?
When performing a bimanual exam, what should you be checking for when palpating the cervix?
When performing a bimanual exam, what should you be checking for when palpating the cervix?
Which factors are exclusionary criteria for 'average-risk' regarding cervical cancer screening per the USPSTF?
Which factors are exclusionary criteria for 'average-risk' regarding cervical cancer screening per the USPSTF?
What maneuver may be employed as a diagnostic aid while examining the genitalia of a child in order to relax the abdominal muscles?
What maneuver may be employed as a diagnostic aid while examining the genitalia of a child in order to relax the abdominal muscles?
Menopause is BEST characterized by which statement?
Menopause is BEST characterized by which statement?
What BEST explains what dysmenorrhea is?
What BEST explains what dysmenorrhea is?
What should the examiner be sure to do to ensure they are using excellent technique when inserting the speculum?
What should the examiner be sure to do to ensure they are using excellent technique when inserting the speculum?
Where are excoriations often identified?
Where are excoriations often identified?
During the external exam, what should be placed outside the posterior part of the labium majus?
During the external exam, what should be placed outside the posterior part of the labium majus?
Flashcards
Vulva
Vulva
Collective term for the external female genitalia, including the mons pubis, labia majora/minora, clitoris, vestibule, urethral meatus, introitus and perineum.
Labia majora
Labia majora
Rounded folds of adipose tissue forming the outer lips of the vagina.
Labia minora
Labia minora
Thinner, pinkish-red folds, or inner lips that extend anteriorly to form the prepuce.
Vestibule
Vestibule
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Introitus
Introitus
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Perineum
Perineum
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Bartholin glands
Bartholin glands
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Paraurethral (Skene) glands
Paraurethral (Skene) glands
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Vagina
Vagina
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Vaginal fornix
Vaginal fornix
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Cervix
Cervix
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Uterus
Uterus
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Adnexa
Adnexa
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Fallopian tubes
Fallopian tubes
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Ovaries
Ovaries
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Rectouterine pouch (Pouch of Douglas)
Rectouterine pouch (Pouch of Douglas)
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Lithotomy position
Lithotomy position
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Pedersen speculum
Pedersen speculum
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Graves specula
Graves specula
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Bartholin gland examination
Bartholin gland examination
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Bimanual Examination
Bimanual Examination
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Rectovaginal Examination
Rectovaginal Examination
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Cervical Broom
Cervical Broom
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Labial Adhesions
Labial Adhesions
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Examination for sexual abuse
Examination for sexual abuse
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Menarche
Menarche
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Dysmenorrhea
Dysmenorrhea
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Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
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Amenorrhea
Amenorrhea
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Primary Amenorrhea
Primary Amenorrhea
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Secondary Amenorrhea
Secondary Amenorrhea
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Menorrhagia
Menorrhagia
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Metrorrhagia
Metrorrhagia
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Menometrorrhagia
Menometrorrhagia
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Average Risk (Cervical Cancer Screening)
Average Risk (Cervical Cancer Screening)
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Cervical Cancer Screening Frequency
Cervical Cancer Screening Frequency
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Cervical Cancer Screening
Cervical Cancer Screening
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When not to screen for cervical cancer
When not to screen for cervical cancer
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Prominent genitalia in newborn female
Prominent genitalia in newborn female
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Assess sexual maturity
Assess sexual maturity
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Prepuce (female)
Prepuce (female)
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Clitoris
Clitoris
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Urethral Meatus
Urethral Meatus
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Vaginal Rugae
Vaginal Rugae
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Tanner Stages
Tanner Stages
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Leukorrhea (newborn)
Leukorrhea (newborn)
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Genital exam on older child
Genital exam on older child
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Hymen in newborns and infants
Hymen in newborns and infants
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Pubic hair before age 7
Pubic hair before age 7
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Genital exam in children
Genital exam in children
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Hymenal Edges
Hymenal Edges
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Medium pederson speculum
Medium pederson speculum
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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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