why are pelvic exams required

[noctilucenteye.livejournal.com]

I always wonder why a pelvic exam is needed to get birth control pills. I understand that it's probably a really good idea but I don't see why it is required. It almost seems like some doctors hold the birth control prescription hostage and make a lot of people feel forced into getting examined. Why can't doctors just say that they recommend a pap smear, give reasons why they think it is a good idea, then give the woman a choice of whether or not they want that test.

So my question for you is why is the exam required? Again, I know why it might be a good idea, but I want to know a medical reason why it is usually required.