Pelvic exam not needed for all women: US doctors’ group

A manual pelvic examination in which gynecologists use their hands to feel around for potentially cancerous masses is not needed for most women, a leading doctors' group said Monday. The American College of Physicians said women should still see their doctors annually for regular Pap smears and cervical exams to screen for cancer and sexually transmitted infections. "Routine pelvic examination has not been shown to benefit asymptomatic, average risk, non-pregnant women," said co-author Linda Humphrey. The pelvic exam occurs when the doctor inserts his or her fingers in the patient's vagina, then uses the other hand to feel the outside of her abdomen for bumps or masses.