Now that you're familiar with how your V zone should function when you are in optimal health, it's time to find out if, indeed, it is functioning this way now.
The best way to tell that is via some self exploration, in the form of the V Zone Self Exam. Indeed, experts advise that checking yourself not only once, but on a regular basis (some say as often as a breast self exam) is one of the best ways to catch most V zone health problems before they become a major health concern.
Getting Started
To begin your exam, you will only need two things - a hand mirror and a good source of light. However, according to the Center for Vulvar Disease, before every exam be certain to wash your hands throughly, lathering with soap for 15 to 20 seconds and then rinsing in warm water. Since you will be touching the inside of your body, it is imperative that you don't skip this important step.
That done, you must position your body in a way that makes the exam fast and easy to do. And there are, in fact, several ways in which this can be done.
Depending on what's most comfortable for you, you can sit or lie down on your bed; or you can squat or kneel on the floor; or you can simply stand up.
Most important is that you are comfortable, in a position that allows you to clearly see the most comprehensive view of your V zone, in your hand held mirror.. Often this is best accomplished by sitting on your bed with your feet up, and your body in a slightly reclined position, using a pillow to prop up your back.
Once you have found your position, you are ready to begin. According to the Center for Vulvar Disease at the University of Michigan/s Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology here are the steps you should take.
1. Once you are in a position to view your vulva in your hand held mirror, use your fingers to gently seperate the outer lips
What you are looking for: A normal vulva should be pink to medium red in color, with no obvious discolorations or very light or very dark areas. You should be on the lookout for any dark red areas, swelling (the tissue may look or feel bloated), blisters, bumps, lesions, sores or any unusual colors. You should also note any unusual odors, and certainly make a point of recognizing if you feel any pain when touching any area of your vulva.
2. The next step is to look a little deeper inside. For this you will need to locate, then seperate your inner vaginal lips. Once you do, gently seperate and look for the same signs listed in Step One.
3. Now it is time to examine your clitoris - located just under a hooded fold of skin inside your vagina. It should resemble a small, fleshy mound. It will be soft to the touch and pink in color. Make a note if, instead, it is either red or purple in color, if it feels hard, or is, in any way, sore to the touch,
4. The final step is to check the area around your V zone - the urethra, perineum, anus and the outside portion of your labia majora and mons pubis.
In addition to redness, swelling or discolorations, you should also be checking for soreness or irritation, as well as itching. Certainly pain attention to signs of bleeding (such as dried or even moist blood) other than that which is associated with your menstrual cycle.
Your exam is now completed. If you should find a problem - or something that doesn't look or feel "right", brin it to your doctor's attention. If you are schedulaed for an exam soon, you can wait until your appointment. If you are not planning on seeing your doctor for a while, place a call and tell your gynecologist what you have discovered during your self-exam. If they suggest you come in for an exam, do so without delay.
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