Question

During a pelvic examination for a postmenopausal woman, you would expect to assess:

a) A wider and longer vaginal vault
b) Absence of vaginal wall rugation
c) A nonpalpable cervical os
d) A more mobile cervix

Answer 1

During a pelvic examination for a postmenopausal woman, you would expect to assess a wider and longer vaginal vault, absence of vaginal wall rugation, a nonpalpable cervical os, and a more mobile cervix.

Step-by-step explanation:

During a pelvic examination for a postmenopausal woman, you would expect to assess:

1. A wider and longer vaginal vault: The female pelvis is wider than the male pelvis, which results in a wider vaginal vault. This is due to the female pelvis being adapted for childbirth, with a larger subpubic angle and a broader angle between the pubic bones.
2. Absence of vaginal wall rugation: Rugae are transverse folds in the inner mucous membrane of the vagina that allow for expansion during intercourse and childbirth. Postmenopausal women may have a loss of vaginal rugation due to hormonal changes.
3. A nonpalpable cervical os: The cervical os is the opening of the cervix into the vaginal canal. During a postmenopausal pelvic examination, the cervical os may not be palpable or easily felt due to changes in the cervix.
4. A more mobile cervix: Postmenopausal women may have a less mobile cervix compared to premenopausal women due to changes in the cervix and surrounding tissues.