A speculum examination and a bimanual examination are often done together. These examinations are used to check a woman's reproductive organs.

For these tests, the woman lies on her back on an examination table with her knees bent and her feet and legs supported by footrests.

For the speculum examination, the doctor places a tool called a speculum into the woman's vagina. The speculum helps to open the vagina a little bit, allowing the doctor to see the cervix and the walls of the vagina. Samples may also be collected for testing.

A bimanual examination is done to check a woman's pelvic organs (such as the uterus and ovaries). The doctor places two gloved, lubricated fingers into the woman's vagina while pressing on her abdomen with the other hand (bimanual means with two hands). This allows the doctor to check the size and shape of the woman's pelvic organs.