Rectovaginal examinations and human papillomavirus: can we decrease the risk of colorectal infection?

Rectovaginal examination with gloves contaminated with vaginal secretions might increase the risk of human papillomavirus (HPV) inoculation of the rectum in women with genital HPV infections. Because of the high prevalence of asymptomatic genital HPV infections, and the association between HPV and colorectal malignancy, examination gloves should be changed between vaginal and rectal examinations.

Key words: colorectal neoplasms, digital rectal examination, human papillomavirus, physical examination, vaginal diseases