The first visit may be just a talk between you and your doctor. You can find out what to expect at future visits and get information about how to stay healthy. You can ask questions about your body, growing up, and sex. You may also have certain exams and vaccinations.
Wear comfortable clothing you can get out of easily. Tuck a pair into your purse and forget the lace-up boots and the intricate body shaper. Also, if you're having a mammogram before or after your Pap test, "wear a top and skirt or pants," said Dr. King.
It's not necessary to shave or wax around the vagina before your first visit to a gynecologist. However, you'll want to shower that day, using a gentle soap to maintain proper vaginal hygiene.
After you check in for your appointment and a medical assistant takes you to the exam room, let them know that you are on your period. You can remove your tampon, pad or menstrual cup in the restroom. Inside the exam room, pads are available to lay underneath you if needed.
'Can a gynecologist check you on your period? ' Yes, they will still be able to perform the examination. Rest assured that some normal vaginal bleeding will not interfere with a regular pelvic exam. If needed, a large, leak proof pad will be placed underneath you.
Wondering if you can still come to your gynecology appointment when you're on your period? Most of the time, yes. If it's for your annual exam, sometimes the Pap Smear Test can be inconclusive if you're bleeding heavily, but if it's one of the lighter days of your period, you should be fine.
Fear or anxiety surrounding a trip to the gynecologist is not an uncommon feeling amongst women. There are a variety of reasons why a gyno visit may arise these negative emotions—the most prevalent being discomfort, embarrassment, feelings of personal intrusion, and fear of finding health issues such as cancer.
As research has shown that cervical cancer takes years to develop, recommendations for screening frequency have evolved. Screenings should begin at age 21 and be repeated every three to five years until age 65, based on previous results.
Nope! You do not need to shave before a gynecologist appointment (or any doctor's appointment!). Your doctor doesn't care how you care for your pubic hair, because it isn't a health or hygiene concern.
When it comes to pubic hair, people groom it using a variety of methods including shaving, waxing, trimming, and laser removal. These methods can lead to ingrown hairs and infections though, so most gynecologists warn against them and recommend trimming or letting it be instead.
Removing pubic hair does not improve hygiene and it may actually increase your chance of infection. Hair removal can sometimes irritate or burn the skin, and cause micro-abrasions, ingrown hairs and pain or itchiness. These can facilitate inflammation and actually provide the entry point for infections.
May I keep my socks and/or shoes on during my exam? Yes. Socks and shoes may be left on, but all other clothing items need to be removed for the exam. Why do pap smears and vaginal exams sometimes hurt?
Patients prefer gynecologist wearing white coats or surgical scrubs when in the office setting.
Gynecologists recommend a Pap smear starting at age 21, and then every 3 years for women in their 20s. In this test, the doctor gently scrapes cells from the cervix using a small brush or spatula. The sample is checked in a lab for cell changes and cervical cancer.
Speculum exams may feel weird or a little uncomfortable, but it doesn't hurt at all for most people. If you have any questions or concerns about pelvic exams or speculums, talk with your nurse or doctor. If you're really nervous or worried about pain, tell them.
Avoid intercourse, douching, or using any vaginal medicines or spermicidal foams, creams or jellies for two days before having a Pap smear, as these may wash away or obscure abnormal cells. Try not to schedule a Pap smear during your menstrual period. It's best to avoid this time of your cycle, if possible.
“If you are really concerned or anxious about any part of the test, it's advisable to speak with the doctor or nurse in advance, as they can help make the test more comfortable for you and talk through any of your concerns,” Dr.
If you are having issues with your mood or suffering from depression or anxiety, talking to your OB/GYN can a good first step. Many women find that they are more comfortable with talking to their OB/GYN about mood-related concerns than their primary care doctor.
In fact, the pelvic exam is one of the most common anxiety-provoking medical procedures. This exam can provoke negative physical and emotional symptoms such as pain, discomfort, anxiety, fear, embarrassment, and irritability.
The Pap smear shouldn't hurt, but it might be uncomfortable. The good news is, it's over quickly.
They'll perform a physical examination, including a pelvic exam. They might also order certain tests, including: Pelvic ultrasound: An ultrasound can detect irregular bleeding due to uterine fibroids, polyps or an ovarian cyst. Endometrial biopsy: Your provider removes a sample of tissue from the lining of your uterus.
Many vaginal yeast infections can be treated with over-the-counter medication. However, more severe cases may be more appropriately treated with prescription medicine. Your gynecologist may also suggest a few home remedies to improve comfort while the infection is being treated.