The first pelvic examination: A rite of passage for the women. A qualitative study about French women

Background: French general practitioners (GP) and gynaecologists can make use of recommendations when performing a patient’s first pelvic examination. The indications and techniques for this examination are clear. The relational aspects and experience of the patients have been dealt with little. Objectives: To analyse and understand the experience of French women during their first pelvic examination to propose practice recommendations based on their experiences. Methods: Qualitative semi-structured interviews was conducted with 13 French women aged 18–30 years recruited from the surgery of a general practitioner using the snowball method. The data were analysed using an inductive method. Results: The first pelvic examination was considered an indispensable rite of passage into adulthood and the life of a woman. They wanted a preparation for a consultation devoted to the first pelvic examination, with a time that is adapted to each woman. A patient-centred practitioner was more important than the pelvic examination itself. Conclusion: Women requested for a general practitioner or a gynaecologist with a deeper understanding of a woman’s experience to perform their first pelvic examination. We propose practical recommendations: the following 3 phases for the consultation: before the pelvic examination where the women and the practitioners may get to know one another; during the examination, which would involve the technical aspects and the associated procedures; and after the examination, where the patients and the practitioners review the experience and discuss prevention.