General Gynecology

A standard gynecological examination usually consists of a vaginal examination with a speculum, possibly a Pap smear, a (vaginal) ultrasound, and a breast exam.

Depending on the reason for your consultation, this may be deviated from or additional examinations may be performed.

During the consultation, your contraception will be discussed or changed if desired. Both a copper and a hormonal IUD can be placed immediately if desired.

An STI screening can also be done during your examination. Be sure to indicate this if you wish. 
 

Smear: new guidelines

Since 1 January 2025, screening in Belgium for cervical cancer has changed.

The first smear is scheduled when you are 25 years old. Between 25 and 30 years, smears are repeated every 3 years and a cell examination is performed.

Between 30 and 65, an HPV test is recommended every 5 years. In case of abnormalities, a co-test is performed on the same sample and a cell examination is done.

With a smear test, we can detect abnormal cells and the HPV virus, often before symptoms develop. 

HPV stands for human papillomavirus, a common virus transmitted through sexual or intimate contact, or even skin-to-skin contact. There are as many as 150-odd types. The virus can occur in different places, such as the vagina, anus, throat and skin. Almost everyone comes into contact with HPV at some point, usually between the ages of 20 and 25. 

In most cases, your immune system clears the virus itself, just like with the flu. So taking good care of your body, eating healthy food, getting enough sleep, exercising, not smoking, can help clear the virus. But if that virus remains present for a long time, it can cause abnormal cells. This can be a precursor of cancer, for example, to the cervix.

If there are abnormalities in the smear, a colposcopy is often recommended. This is a microscopic examination of the cervix. A dye is then used to colour abnormal cells. Sometimes a biopsy is performed.

In primary school, both boys and girls are offered vaccination for cervical cancer through school screening.