Vaginal examination, have we forgotten the basics?

This article discusses the actual practice of the vaginal examination and compare the different methods that commonly are used in Europe, particularly the UK and the north European way. The advantages and disadvantages for the patient and the gynaecologist are described in a comprehensive way explaining why different gynaecological positions may be more efficient for both the patient and the gynaecologist. Emphasis is given on the training validation for the junior doctors and the future general practitioners.