Gynecological exams and Pap smear tests - alternatives to stirrups?
BOSTON, MA — No matter how many pelvic examinations a woman has, it's unlikely she'll ever feel at ease about being asked to place her feet up in metal stirrups. Still, the stirrups position is thought to afford the best view of the vulvovaginal area and facilitate proper placement of exam instruments. According to the findings of a new study, however, there may be an acceptable, less vexing alternative, reports the October 2006 issue of Harvard Women's Health Watch.
In a randomized trial of stirrups versus no stirrups for routine gynecological exams, researchers found that women who were allowed to keep their feet on the examining table felt significantly more comfortable than those whose feet were placed in stirrups. The study also demonstrated that it's possible to perform pelvic exams and obtain Pap smears-important screening tests for cervical cancer-without using stirrups.
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