Check-up & Annual Gynecological Examination
Pap Test, ThinPrep, HPV DNA Test
Cytological screening is primarily performed through the Pap test (Papanicolaou test). During this examination, cells collected from the cervix are evaluated for precancerous lesions, cervical cancer, and signs of HPV infection. This test should begin from the onset of sexual activity and be performed annually.
It is important to avoid sexual intercourse for 24 hours before the examination, as well as the use of tampons and vaginal preparations prior to the test. The HPV DNA test is a molecular test that detects the presence of human papillomavirus (HPV) in the cervix. It identifies the genetic material (DNA) of the virus before cellular abnormalities appear. The sample is collected in the same way as for the Pap test and can be performed together with the Pap test (co-testing) or following an abnormal Pap test result.
3D/4D Ultrasound evaluation of the internal genital organs
This is an advanced form of ultrasound examination that provides a more detailed visualization of the uterus, endometrium, and ovaries by creating a three-dimensional image of the organs. It is useful for accurately assessing uterine anatomy (congenital abnormalities), the precise location of polyps and fibroids, the thickness and morphology of the endometrium, as well as the ovaries and ovarian follicles, which are important parameters for fertility assessment. It can also assist in determining the nature of ovarian and fallopian tube lesions. It is particularly valuable in the evaluation of infertility and before in vitro fertilization (IVF), in cases of suspected uterine anatomical abnormalities, recurrent miscarriages, and menstrual cycle disorders.
Dr. Dimitraki holds the specialized license to perform ultrasound examinations, which is granted following specialized examinations conducted by the Central Health Council (KESY) of the Ministry of Health.
Hysterosalpingo-Foam Sonography (HyFoSy)
This is a modern fertility assessment test used to determine whether the fallopian tubes are open and whether the uterine cavity is normal. During the procedure, a thin catheter is inserted through the cervix into the uterus, through which a special contrast foam is introduced into the uterine cavity. At the same time, an ultrasound examination is performed to monitor the passage of the foam and assess whether it flows through the fallopian tubes.
The advantages of this examination compared with conventional hysterosalpingography—which is performed in a radiology department—are that it does not involve radiation exposure, can be performed directly in the gynecologist’s office, is usually less painful, and provides immediate results. In addition, evidence suggests that following HyFoSy, the chances of conception may temporarily increase, as the passage of the contrast foam may help eliminate minor obstructions that may be present within the fallopian tubes. The procedure is performed during the first days of the menstrual cycle, immediately after the end of menstruation and before ovulation.
Hysterosalpingo-Contrast Sonography (HyCoSy)
This is a very similar examination to the previous one (HyFoSy), with the difference that it uses a liquid contrast agent instead of foam.
Colposcopy
Colposcopy is an examination in which the cervix, vagina, and vulva are examined under magnification using a specialized instrument called a colposcope, which functions like a “microscope.” During the examination, special solutions (acetic acid and Lugol’s iodine) are applied with the aim of
identifying lesions or precancerous changes. If necessary, a biopsy is performed (collection of a small tissue sample). Colposcopy is recommended in the following cases: abnormal Pap test results, cervical HPV infection, bleeding between menstrual periods, and follow-up of previously identified cervical lesions. It is not a treatment, but a diagnostic tool that helps determine whether further management or intervention is required.
Dr. Dimitraki holds the specialized license to perform colposcopy, which is granted following
specialized examinations conducted by the Hellenic Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology (HSCCP).
Ovarian Reserve Assessment - AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone)
Ovarian reserve assessment involves estimating the number of functional oocytes remaining in the ovaries and their potential reproductive capacity. It provides information regarding how the ovaries may respond to a possible fertility treatment. The main tests used to evaluate ovarian reserve include antral follicle count (AFC) through ultrasound examination, which is performed during the first days of the menstrual cycle; measurement of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels in the blood, which can be performed on any day of the menstrual cycle; and, as a complementary assessment, measurement of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels in the blood during the 2nd–3rd day of the menstrual cycle.