Despite the existence of many laboratory and instrumental diagnostic methods, in practice obstetricians and gynecologists still apply bimanual research. This method is quite simple and informative. With it, the doctor has the opportunity to make a preliminary diagnosis.
Opportunities
Bimanual research (its other name is two-handed) allows you to assess the condition of the uterus and ovaries, pelvic tissues. During the procedure, the doctor carefully examines the cervix, the organ itself, determines its shape and size, texture, mobility and nature of the surface. All this allows you to timely detect the presence of a pathological process, diagnose pregnancy.
Normally, the procedure is not associated with any pain, the patient may feel only a little discomfort.
In order to prevent various diseases, every woman should visit a gynecologist twice a year. A bimanual examination is a must at every examination of the patient.
Indications
Diagnosis of the condition of the internal genital organs is carried out not only for preventive purposes. A bimanual study in gynecology is indicated for:
- malfunctions of the menstrual cycle;
- frequent pain in the pubic area and lower abdomen;
- chronic diseases of the reproductive system;
- the presence of neoplasms of a benign or malignant nature;
- suspected ectopic pregnancy;
- bleeding of unknown etiology;
- the appearance of secretions that differ from normal in quantity, color and consistency;
- adhesions and obstruction of the fallopian tubes;
- pregnancy
- in the postpartum period.
The list of these symptoms and conditions can be significantly expanded due to the huge variety of gynecological diseases.
Method Advantages
The main advantage of bimanual research is a high degree of informational content. In this case, the doctor does not need any equipment.
With the help of palpation, the gynecologist assesses the condition of the internal genital organs (uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, etc.) and timely reveals the presence of pathologies.
In addition, in the process of bimanual research, pregnancy is guaranteed or excluded.
disadvantages
The disadvantage of this method is its dependence on the physique of a woman. As a rule, palpation is difficult in patients with pronounced subcutaneous fat. In this case, additional diagnostic methods are additionally required.
In addition, each doctor can interpret the symptoms that concern the woman in different ways, which affects the reliability of the result. Nevertheless, experienced specialists of this examination are enough to reach a verdict and draw up a treatment regimen.
Preparation
Before visiting a gynecologist, it is recommended to observe the following rules:
- In order to avoid the appearance of excess secretions, it is necessary to exclude sexual contacts a day before the examination.
- During the same time, it is advisable to refrain from eating foods that cause increased gas formation. Failure to comply with this recommendation will not distort the result, but may provoke an awkward situation.
- On the day of the examination before the procedure, thorough hygiene of the external genital organs is necessary.
- Immediately before the examination, it is recommended to empty the bladder.
Thus, preparation for bimanual research does not require any special actions. The main thing is hygiene, everything else depends on the level of professionalism of the doctor.
Methodology
Before starting the examination, the specialist wipes the gynecological chair with a special solution and puts a new disposable diaper on it. While the patient is sitting down, the doctor puts on sterile gloves on both hands. After completion of the preparatory phase, the inspection begins.
The technique of bimanual research consists in sequentially performing the following actions:
- The fingers of the right hand the doctor gently inserts into the vagina. The left hand should palpate the internal organs from the outside - in the region of the lower abdomen of the patient.
- Bimanual examination of the uterus is primarily carried out. The doctor determines its position, shape, size, mobility, consistency, surface character. Normally, the process proceeds painlessly. If this is not the case, you must immediately notify the gynecologist. Patience in this case is inappropriate - any pain signals the presence of an inflammatory process.
- Next, the doctor probes the uterine (fallopian) tubes, appendages, ligaments. In the absence of pathologies, they are usually practically inaccessible to palpation.
- Particular attention is paid to the ovaries: they should be palpable, mobile and sensitive. If the ovaries are enlarged, this may indicate the onset of pregnancy or imminent ovulation.
- Fiber and uterine lining should not be felt. Otherwise, it is a sign of adhesions, infiltrate or inflammation.
After the examination, the doctor removes the gloves and discards them. Then he washes his hands with soap and takes notes on the patient’s medical record. If there is any doubt about the existing symptoms, additional diagnostic methods are additionally prescribed.
Finally
Bimanual research is a simple but quite informative way of assessing the condition of a woman's internal genital organs. With its help, various diseases are detected in a timely manner. The disadvantages of the method are its subjectivity and dependence on the patient’s physique. If necessary, other diagnostic methods are prescribed.