[Weeks 34-37] The internal exam checks for risks of miscarriage and premature birth
The purpose and timing of a vaginal or cervical examination during pregnancy depend on your gestational age and individual circumstances. Practices also vary between healthcare providers and hospitals. Some may perform vaginal examinations at certain stages of pregnancy, while others may not perform one until late pregnancy unless there are symptoms or a medical reason to do so. Later in pregnancy, a vaginal examination may be performed when needed to assess how your body is preparing for labor. Your healthcare provider may check how soft and thin (effaced) the cervix has become, how much it has opened (dilated), and how far the baby’s head has descended into the pelvis. When necessary, a speculum examination may be performed to look at the vagina and cervix and assess discharge or bleeding. A transvaginal ultrasound may also be used when additional evaluation is needed. As your due date approaches or passes, the cervix may be assessed to help determine readiness for labor and whether induction of labor may be appropriate. This includes evaluating cervical ripening—the changes in the cervix as it softens, thins, and begins to open in preparation for birth. If an abnormality is suspected during the examination, or if you have symptoms such as bleeding or unusual vaginal discharge, additional tests such as a speculum examination or ultrasound may be performed. The timing and frequency of vaginal examinations are therefore not the same for everyone and are determined by your healthcare provider based on your stage of pregnancy, symptoms, and progress toward labor.