The Role of Speculum During Menopause: A Closer Look

The journey of womanhood is marked by various physiological stages, with menopause being one of the most profound. According to ACOG, as your body transitions during this period, getting regular pelvic exams to help with the early detection of issues and maintain optimal health is crucial.

An integral part of a regular pelvic exam is the speculum, which allows for better visibility and more accurate diagnosis. Recognizing a speculum’s role in your gynecological health during menopause can help you understand why you need a specialized speculum to address your unique needs.

What is Menopause?

Menopause is a biological process characterized by the cessation of menstrual cycles in women, typically between the ages of 45 and 55. It signals the end of a woman’s reproductive years. 

A decline in the ovaries’ production of the hormones estrogen and progesterone drives this transition. As a result, women may experience symptoms like hot flashes, sleep disturbances, and mood fluctuations.

Do I Still Need a Pelvic Exam After Menopause?

While routine pelvic exams may be less frequent after menopause, visiting your doctor or OB/GYN is essential to your overall well-being. The U.S.Preventive Services Task Force recommends that women between the ages of 30 and 65 receive cervical cancer screening every 3 years and an HPV screening every 5 years, both of which require a pelvic exam.

Other critical reasons to get pelvic exams after menopause include:

• Detecting changes: The vaginal and pelvic tissues change post-menopause due to decreased estrogen levels. A pelvic exam can help detect conditions like vaginal atrophy, which can cause symptoms like dryness, burning, and discomfort.

• Screening for cancer: The risk for certain cancers, like ovarian and endometrial cancer, can increase with age. Regular pelvic exams and other tests can aid in early detection.

• Monitoring prolapse: Pelvic organ prolapse, where organs like the uterus, bladder, or rectum drop and press against the vagina, is more common in postmenopausal women. An exam can evaluate the presence and degree of prolapse.

• Identifying infections: Although less common after menopause, vaginal and urinary tract infections can still occur. Pelvic exams can help your doctor diagnose and treat these conditions.

• Continual care: If you’ve had previous gynecological issues, such as fibroids or endometriosis, it’s essential to monitor these conditions, as they can still have implications after menopause.

Always consult your healthcare provider to determine the frequency and type of examinations best suited for your health needs. Regular check-ups and open communication with your doctor will ensure you receive tips for your pelvic exam and maintain optimal health during the postmenopausal years.

Why the Type of Speculum Matters During Your Menopausal Pelvic Exam

The type of speculum used during a pelvic exam can influence the comfort and effectiveness of the examination, especially during menopause when physiological changes are prevalent. Here’s why the choice of speculum matters:

• Vaginal dryness and atrophy: One of the most common symptoms of menopause is vaginal dryness and atrophy. Vaginal dryness can make the insertion of a speculum during a pelvic exam feel more uncomfortable. The thinning, drying, and inflammation of the vaginal walls, known as vaginal atrophy, can be associated with symptoms such as burning or itching. A too-large speculum can exacerbate discomfort in an already sensitive area. 

Ask your doctor to use a Nella speculum made from ultra-smooth polymer that does not require additional lubrication and features blades the width of a standard tampon for enhanced comfort. 

• Vaginal elasticity: With reduced estrogen levels during menopause, the vaginal walls and pelvic tissues may lose some elasticity and flexibility. This can make certain parts of the pelvic exam, such as the palpation of the ovaries or uterus, feel different or slightly more uncomfortable than in the perimenopausal years.

A Nella speculum ensures that the vaginal walls are not overly stretched during the exam, reducing discomfort.

• Tissue sensitivity: The thinning of vaginal walls can also increase sensitivity. Nella’s comfortable speculum with smooth edges is made from temperature-neutral materials that can quickly adapt to body temperature and reduce the risk of pain or injury.

• Enhanced visualization: Nella’s modern disposable speculum with light can be beneficial for obtaining a clearer view. This is vital if menopausal changes have led to conditions that require closer examination, such as prolapse or urinary incontinence. 

Prioritizing Women’s Health and Comfort

Menopause is a natural phase in a woman’s life, but it requires a different level of care and attention. Regular pelvic exams, aided by tools like comfortable disposable speculums, detect potential issues early on. 

Nella is making strides in ensuring these exams are not just effective but also comfortable. As women navigate this phase, it’s essential to prioritize their comfort and well-being, and choosing the right tools is a step in that direction