Prior to the exam, the examiner should offer to show the patient models or diagrams of the pelvic anatomy and any instruments that will be used during the exam. The examiner should explain each step of the exam and its purpose, should address and normalize any concerns, should assert that the patient has full control over the exam, and should ask permission before each step of the exam. The examiner should keep as much of the patient's body covered as possible during the exam. If at any point the patient does not want to continue the exam, the examiner should stop, speak with the patient about their concerns and how to mitigate them, and only continue when the patient is ready to do so.