Less Painful Pelvic Exams 

Pelvic exams, including vaginal exams, are not meant to be painful; however, many people do experience pain during an exam. Experiencing a painful exam can be upsetting , can be (re)traumatizing and can lead individuals to avoid seeking care. Jessica Adaszynski, a Physiotherapist practicing pelvic health and Amanda Lewis, RN, along with their patient partners Melanie Chow and Joty Grewal all know from experience that when care providers are equipped with specific handling techniques and patients are encouraged to be involved and ask questions about their care, pain can be reduced or eliminated. Birthing units are a place in our healthcare system where numerous vaginal exams take place, often people’s first experience with one. Our project will train providers at a Fraser Health birthing unit in specific handling techniques to reduce pain and discomfort, as well as provide information to patients on ways to be involved in their exams and reduce pain. We hope that after the completion of this project, these techniques will be adopted throughout Fraser Health where pelvic exams are performed.