Female genital procedures

Female Genital Procedures

Female genital procedures are medical interventions performed on the female reproductive system. These procedures can be diagnostic, therapeutic, or cosmetic in nature. They include a wide range of interventions, from minor procedures such as Pap smears and colposcopy to major surgeries like hysterectomy and oophorectomy.

Diagnostic Procedures

Diagnostic procedures are performed to identify or confirm the presence of a disease or condition. They include:

• Pap smear: A procedure in which cells are scraped from the cervix and examined under a microscope to check for abnormalities.
• Colposcopy: A procedure that uses a special magnifying instrument to examine the cervix, vagina, and vulva for signs of disease.
• Endometrial biopsy: A procedure in which a sample of tissue is taken from the lining of the uterus (endometrium) for examination.

Therapeutic Procedures

Therapeutic procedures are performed to treat a disease or condition. They include:

• Hysterectomy: A surgical procedure to remove all or part of the uterus.
• Oophorectomy: A surgical procedure to remove one or both ovaries.
• Tubal ligation: A surgical procedure to close the fallopian tubes to prevent pregnancy.

Cosmetic Procedures

Cosmetic procedures are performed to improve the appearance or function of the female genitalia. They include:

• Labiaplasty: A surgical procedure to alter the labia minora and/or the labia majora, the folds of skin surrounding the human vulva.
• Vaginoplasty: A procedure that aims to "tighten up" a vagina that's become slack or loose from vaginal childbirth or aging.
• Clitoral hood reduction: A procedure to reduce the size of the clitoral hood to increase sexual pleasure.

See Also

• Gynecology
• Obstetrics
• Reproductive medicine