Vaginoscopy is a diagnostic exam that uses a tiny camera on a long, thin, flexible piece of plastic to examine the inside of the vagina. The tiny camera can capture photos and video. On the other end of the vaginoscope is a small display screen that lets the clinician see what the camera sees.
What is a vaginoscopy?
A vaginoscopy helps the gynecologist see inside the vagina via a small display screen that is attached to the scope. Some people may benefit from a vaginoscopy if they have had surgeries involving their vagina or have variations in their vaginal anatomy. Vaginoscopies can be useful for evaluating vaginas after a surgery, including to evaluate for areas where the vagina may have become smaller (stricture) or may not have healed entirely (e.g., granulation tissue). For those who have variations in vaginal anatomy, vaginoscopies can help patients better understand their own anatomy.
Where is a vaginosopy performed?
The vaginoscopy will be done in our office, while you are awake. Before starting, the provider will talk with you about the procedure and review the consent form. Signing the consent form is required before we can begin the procedure. This is a good time for you to ask questions.
How long does a vaginscopy take?
Preparing for the vaginoscopy takes about 5 minutes, while the procedure itself takes about 10 minutes. Your provider will help you place your legs in the foot rests and move you’re your butt to the edge of the exam table. It is most helpful that once your legs are in the foot rests to let your knees fall out to the side, this helps relax the pelvic floor.
How is a vaginoscopy performed?
The provider team will first review some questions (name, date of birth, allergies) with you, this is called a “time out.” The provider will talk you through each step of procedure. Once the vaginoscope is placed gently inside the vagina, sterile water will be introduced through the vaginoscope, helping your provider see clearly inside. We expect that you will experience little to no discomfort with the insertion of the vaginoscope. The provider has the option to capture photos and/or video, so that they can show you what they find, and these can be saved to your medical chart. The provider will only save photos/video to your medical chart if it will be helpful.
What is vaginoscopy with irrigation?
Vaginoscopy with irrigation simply means that after the vaginoscopy is performed the doctor may use a syringe and tubing filled with sterile water to flush out the vaginal canal. No needles are used with the syringe.
What to expect after the vaginoscopy?
You may experience mild discomfort. If there is any pain, you may take Tylenol (Acetaminophen). It is unlikely, but you may experience some vaginal bleeding and/or “spotting.” This should resolve shortly after the procedure. You may return to normal activity following the procedure. Your provider will let you know if a follow up visit is required.