The first pelvic examination: A rite of passage for the women. A qualitative study about French women

Abstract

Background French general practitioners (GP) and gynaecologists can make use of recommendations when performing a patient’s first pelvic examination. The indications and techniques for this examination are clear. The relational aspects and experience of the patients have been dealt with little. Objectives To analyse and understand the experience of French women during their first pelvic examination to propose practice recommendations based on their experiences. Methods Qualitative semi-structured interviews was conducted with 13 French women aged 18–30 years recruited from the surgery of a general practitioner using the snowball method. The data were analysed using an inductive method. Results The first pelvic examination was considered an indispensable rite of passage into adulthood and the life of a woman. They wanted a preparation for a consultation devoted to the first pelvic examination, with a time that is adapted to each woman. A patient-centred practitioner was more important than the pelvic examination itself. Conclusion Women requested for a general practitioner or a gynaecologist with a deeper understanding of a woman’s experience to perform their first pelvic examination. We propose practical recommendations: the following 3 phases for the consultation: before the pelvic examination where the women and the practitioners may get to know one another; during the examination, which would involve the technical aspects and the associated procedures; and after the examination, where the patients and the practitioners review the experience and discuss prevention.

Keywords

• pelvic examination
• woman
• prevention
• qualitative research
• patient-centred care