Other Specific Areas to Record—List histories of vaginal discharge (leukorrhea) and such characteristics as the duration, odor, consistency, and color. When recording the obstetric history, include past and present urinary symptoms and any nausea or vomiting. It is important to list the patient’s sexual history when STD is suspected or when there are complaints of painful coitus or postcoital bleeding.

Figure 2-1.-The female reproductive system—anterior view.

Figure 2-2.-The female reproductive system—lateral view.

PHYSICAL EXAMINATION OF THE FEMALE GENITALIA

Before starting an examination of the female genitalia, obtain a history of any urinary tract infection symptoms, such as pain, frequency, and urgency. If the patient has symptoms, you can then determine the appropriate method of specimen collection. The next step is to ask the