Internal Exams

There are no real advantages that I am aware of.    Just for fun!

It will not tell anyone any truly useful information.

• A woman may become discouraged by multiple exams and mindless comments such as, “you are only __cm”. Labor then can stall giving way to interventions that often end in cesarean.

• Vaginal exams increase the risk of infection by bringing bacteria towards the cervix, even when done carefully and especially after the release of the membranes.

• Vaginal exams are not a reliable way to predict when labor will begin. Labor normally begins when the baby is ready and a wonderful cocktail of hormones begin to release.

• Vaginal exams are particularly painful during contractions and disrupt a woman’s concentration.

http://pregnancy.about.com/cs/interventions/a/vaginalexam.htm

http://www.womanswisdom.info/vagexams.pdf

From http://sites.google.com/site/ultimatebirthplan/definitions:
Minimal Vaginal Exams during labor not only decreases the risk of infection, it also is less invasive; and vaginal exams can be painful.  You have the right to ask for a vaginal exam, and you also have the right to refuse a vaginal exam (unless there is a complication such as a prolapsed cord)

labor is not about dilation.  Your body knows how to give birth whether or not you have a pelvic exam during labor.  Birthing women need encouragement to trust their bodies, and to be the stars of their own labors.     ~The Doula Guide to Birth

man, doulala you're a quick responser!! all the info she gave you says it all!

thanks doulala

I liked this link a lot - it's very succinct  http://pregnancy.about.com/cs/interventions/a/vaginalexam.htm

I guess the exams are worth avoiding, since they are uncomfortable.

I just happened to be right here, what can I say, lol!
;-)