Can a doctor force you to have a pelvic exam?

The exams are typically conducted while the patient is awake and consenting at a gynecologist visit, to screen for certain cancers, infections and other reproductive health issues. But across many U.S. states and medical institutions, physicians are not required to obtain explicit consent for the procedure.

Can you turn down a Pap smear?

A simple change in positioning might also make a pap smear less painful. Some women tolerate the procedure better by lying on their sides or they place their hands underneath their rears and press down. Just like sex, different positions can decrease any discomfort you feel in your vagina.

What happens if you refuse a physical?

Though your doctor conducts the examination, you’re in charge. You can refuse any part of the exam, tests, or treatments ordered. Just be sure you fully understand the consequences of such a decision. Expect politeness, but respect the doctor’s need to control the examination.

Do I have to get a pap smear every year for birth control?

An annual exam is not needed to stay on the birth control pill, although a blood pressure check may be needed for some women. Refilling birth control pills over the phone is simply part of the job.

Can I refuse pelvic exams?

You always have the right to refuse to answer certain questions or to decline a physical examination of any part of your body. You are the one in charge and nothing should happen without your consent. You also have the right to withdraw consent and stop your examination at any point.

Can I say no to pelvic exam?

But the American College of Physicians, representing doctors of internal medicine, says that potential harms of the exam outweigh benefits and recommends against performing pelvic examinations unless a woman is pregnant or has symptoms of disease such as bleeding, pain or signs of infection.

Can you refuse a pelvic exam and get birth control?

No, you do not need to have a pelvic exam or Pap test to get birth control at our clinics.

Can you deny a pelvic exam?

A pelvic exam is where a doctor or nurse practitioner looks at a girl’s reproductive organs (both outside and internally). This includes feeling a girl’s uterus and ovaries to be sure everything’s normal. Teens don’t usually get pelvic exams. Sometimes doctors do pelvic exams if they think there’s a problem.