Most women will likely visit a gynecologist from time to time to ensure their health is in check and to help prevent any potential health issues.
And while we women know just how important this appointment is, we still tend to put it off. For most of us, it’s uncomfortable to undress in front of someone in that setting.
To make your visit a little more pleasant, here are some things you should avoid when going to the gynecologist…
1. Don’t panic
Do you feel nervous about your gynecologist visit because the thought of exposing yourself to your doctor feels totally uncomfortable? You’re definitely not alone—many women feel the same way. Honestly, there are few things more awkward than sitting in a gynecological exam chair, legs spread wide, while someone examines you. But here’s the thing: these exams are crucial because they’re the best way to detect and treat sexually transmitted diseases or cancers like breast and cervical cancer at an early stage.
That’s why you need to push past your fear. Remember, your doctor sees plenty of naked women every day—it’s just part of their job. They aren’t focusing on things like toned thighs, painted toenails, or whether or not you’ve shaved. They’re focused on your health. And that’s something you can remind yourself of the moment you start feeling self-conscious. Your doctor isn’t worried about how you look — they’re just there to make sure you’re healthy.
2. Showing up without showering?
Even though your doctor doesn’t care if you shave or have hair down there, they obviously don’t want to examine someone who hasn’t taken care of themselves.
Not only will this make your doctor’s job easier, but it will also make you feel better. So, put on fresh underwear that makes you feel comfortable. It’s all about ensuring you feel good during the appointment.
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However, many gynecologists don’t recommend douching at all, as it can disrupt the natural balance of vaginal flora and its acidity. Instead, it is advised to rinse or wash the vagina with just warm water before a pelvic exam. Additionally, it’s best to avoid using any vaginal creams or foams for 48 hours prior to the exam.
3. Hiding symptoms
Have you been feeling like something’s off down there for a while? Maybe you’ve been experiencing constant itching but don’t want to bring it up because it feels too uncomfortable? In this case, you need to step out of your comfort zone because your doctor can only help you if you’re honest with them.
There’s no point in hiding symptoms. If something feels wrong, talk to your doctor about it. They’re there to help, not judge.
4. Avoid sex
Some experts suggests refraining from sex for up to 24 hours before a gynecological appointment. Sex can sometimes cause skin irritation, which could interfere with the ability to accurately diagnose certain conditions.
While condoms can protect against infections, some types contain spermicide, which may affect the vaginal pH levels. Additionally, it’s best to avoid using personal lubricants before the appointment, as this helps ensure the accuracy of cervical screening tests.
4. Don’t Google
You’ve already spent hours online, searching for answers to your symptoms, and now you’re ready to launch into a long explanation to your doctor about everything you’ve read and all the diseases you think you might have.
But here’s the thing: your doctor is the expert, not Google. While it’s natural to want to understand what’s going on with your body, your doctor is trained to make the diagnoses. He doesn’t need you to walk him through your findings from the internet. Trust him to do his job. Let him guide the conversation and tell you what he thinks is going on. After all, that’s what he’s there for.
5. Having questions but not asking them
It’s natural to have questions, but holding them back can leave you feeling unsure. Don’t be afraid to ask your gynecologist anything that’s on your mind.
Do you have a lot of questions about your body, birth control, or future pregnancy, but feel too embarrassed to ask? There’s no need to worry! Your doctor is the perfect person to talk to about these things. Be brave and discuss what matters to you. Remember, every doctor is bound by confidentiality, so you don’t have to worry about them sharing your questions or concerns with anyone else.
6. The chair
Do you find the sight of the gynecological chair a bit intimidating? At first glance, especially during your very first visit, it can seem pretty daunting. But hey, it’s just a chair, so don’t let it scare you. When you’re positioned correctly, it allows your abdomen to be examined thoroughly. That’s why it’s important to stay relaxed and not tense up.
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The exam shouldn’t hurt, so there’s no need to be anxious. However, your doctor will let you know if you’re too tense or not sitting properly.
Here are a few tips to help you stay comfortable during the exam…
7. Slide forward
Gynecologists often have to remind patients several times to move further forward in the chair.
To make things easier for your doctor, make sure you’re sitting far enough forward so they can perform the examination properly. Simply shift your hips toward the doctor and slide forward a little. This will ensure a smoother and more effective exam.
8. First-time gynecologist visit
For a young woman who has never been to a gynecologist, scheduling an appointment could be a good idea – but that doesn’t mean you have to undergo a gynecological exam right away.
You could simply have an initial consultation with the gynecologist instead. It’s not assumed that an exam would take place during the first visit, so it’s important for younger women to understand this. Additionally, it’s recommended to bring a partner or a friend for support during the first appointment.
9. Write down your questions
For women who have been to the gynecologist before, there’s a helpful tip that some gynecologists recommend: prepare by writing down the questions you want answered, so you don’t forget to ask them due to stress.
Also, don’t choose your gynecologist based on their gender, unless you have specific reasons for doing so.
10. Remove your tampon
It’s important to remember to always remove your tampon after use.
”One rare situation that can happen is when someone forgets a tampon for several days. This can cause bacteria to grow, leading to a strong, unpleasant odor. But it’s not the body’s fault — it’s the tampon. Once you remove it, the issue is easily resolved. A forgotten tampon can smell pretty bad, but it’s a simple problem to fix. I don’t think it’s anything to be ashamed of either,” one gynecologist shares.