Care adapted to your needs, at every stage of life
Taking care of your intimate health does not necessarily mean having the same exam at regular intervals. The recommended assessments, exams and samples vary according to your age, medical history, risk factors, symptoms and concerns.
At Cliniques Marois, our clinical nurses support you in a confidential, respectful and judgment-free environment. Depending on your situation, they can provide guidance, perform certain exams or samples, and direct you to the appropriate service or healthcare professional.

What intimate health services are offered?
Depending on your needs, you may consult for:
Cervical cancer screening
Screening may include a human papillomavirus (HPV) test, a Pap test, or both, depending on your situation and the applicable recommendations.
STBBI screening
A consultation can help assess your risk factors, determine the appropriate samples and screen for certain sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections.
Vaginal discharge and vulvovaginal concerns
You may consult if you have unusual vaginal discharge, itching, irritation, redness, unusual odours or other vulvovaginal discomfort.
Depending on your situation, the nurse may perform an assessment, collect samples and recommend the appropriate course of action.
Urogenital concerns
Certain urinary, genital or pelvic symptoms require a more focused assessment. The consultation helps better understand your symptoms and determine whether exams, samples or a medical referral are needed.
What happens during the consultation?
The appointment process varies depending on the reason for consultation and the care required.
1. Discussion and assessment
The nurse takes the time to discuss with you:
- The reason for your consultation;
- Your symptoms or concerns;
- Your medical and gynecological history;
- Your sexual health;
- Your menstrual cycle, when relevant;
- Your current contraceptive method and needs, if applicable.
2. Exam or samples, when required
Depending on your situation, the consultation may include:
- A visual examination of the vulvar and genital area;
- A speculum exam;
- A vaginal, cervical, urine or other indicated sample;
- An HPV screening test or Pap test;
- Samples for STBBI screening;
- Other analyses deemed relevant according to the applicable scope of practice.
Not every exam is necessary for every patient. The nurse will explain the proposed steps before beginning.
3. Advice and care plan
Following the assessment, the nurse may:
- Provide personalized advice;
- Explain the next steps;
- Follow up on certain results;
- Refer you to a physician, specialized nurse practitioner or another professional when needed.
Can contraception be discussed?
Yes. Contraception may be part of the discussion during your consultation.
The nurse may ask you about:
- Your current contraceptive method;
- Your satisfaction with your method and how you use it;
- Any side effects experienced;
- Your contraceptive needs;
- Your desire for pregnancy;
- Your questions about the different options available.
Depending on the service offered, the nurse’s prescribing authority and your clinical situation, a separate consultation or referral may be recommended to initiate or modify a contraceptive method.
Do all women need a speculum exam?
Is it painful?
Most patients feel more pressure or mild discomfort than actual pain.
Each step will be explained before the exam. At any time, you may:
- Ask questions;
- Request a pause;
- Report discomfort;
- Withdraw your consent;
- Refuse part of the exam.
Your comfort, consent and sense of safety remain priorities throughout the appointment.
How do I choose the right appointment?
You do not need to determine on your own which exam or sample is required.
When you contact our team, simply tell us:
- The main reason for your request;
- Whether symptoms are present or not;
- The type of screening you are looking for, if known;
- Any recommendation already received from a healthcare professional.
Our team will guide you toward the appointment best suited to your needs.
When should I consult more quickly?
Certain symptoms may require a faster medical assessment, including:
- Unusual or heavy vaginal bleeding;
- Significant or persistent pelvic pain;
- Intense lower abdominal pain;
- Fever accompanied by urogenital symptoms;
- Blood in the urine;
- Significant pain during sexual intercourse;
- Rapid worsening of symptoms or a concerning general condition.
Depending on the nature and intensity of your symptoms, a medical assessment or emergency consultation may be recommended.
How should I prepare for my appointment?
Instructions may vary depending on the type of exam or sample planned. When booking your appointment, our team will provide the recommendations that apply to your situation.
In general:
- Have your medication list on hand;
- Write down your questions or concerns;
- Let us know if you are menstruating, if pregnancy is possible or if you have recently used vaginal products;
- Follow any specific instructions received when booking your appointment.
Menstruation does not necessarily prevent the consultation. Our team can confirm whether the appointment should be maintained or rescheduled.
What happens after the consultation?
You can generally resume your usual activities immediately after the exam or samples.
You may experience mild discomfort or notice light discharge or slight bleeding after certain samples.
When analyses are performed:
- Samples are sent to a medical laboratory;
- Timelines vary depending on the type of analysis;
- The method for receiving your results will be explained to you;
- Follow-up will be provided when required.
Contact our team or seek care promptly if you experience significant pain, heavy bleeding, fever or any other unusual symptom after the exam.
Are consultations and results confidential?
Yes. The information collected during your consultation and your results are handled confidentially, in accordance with professional obligations and applicable rules regarding the protection of health information.
Do you have questions or concerns about your intimate health?
Each consultation is adapted to your situation, your needs and your level of comfort. Our team takes the time to listen to you, answer your questions, explain each step and support you with respect, gentleness and professionalism.
Because your intimate health deserves an attentive, respectful and personalized approach.
At Cliniques Marois, you are in good hands.