cervical exam at 37 weeks

Dani
I had my first ceevical exam at 37 weeks and it was so uncomfortable. My area down there has been really tight for a while now that even sex is painful sometimes. 
Is it necessary that I have these exams done until labor? I would love to know if I'm dilated but not at the expensive of being uncomfortable. Lol. Cause I was in pain for almost a day after!