Can a gynecologist tell from a routine exam whether a woman is pregnant or not?
At a routine gynecological exam, your clinician will talk to you about a number of things, such as your personal, family, sexual, and medical history. From there, s/he will usually determine your risk for pregnancy and/or sexually transmitted infections, among other things, and will order and perform laboratory tests accordingly. Routine gynecological exams will also include a pelvic exam (including a pap smear) and a breast exam. If you are concerned about being pregnant, it is important that you inform your clinician. S/he will run a pregnancy test to confirm or disprove pregnancy. If you are pregnant, s/he will be able to discuss your options with you (including keeping the baby, abortion and adoption). Additionally, if you are not pregnant, and do not wish to become pregnant, your clinician can help you determine the form of birth control that is right for you and your body.
