As women grow older, their bodies change as well. With time, you find that you need to visit a gynecologist or obstetrician. The doctors specialize in resolving reproductive health problems. Michael Cho M.D. notes that girls should start appointments when they are 13-15 years old. Your first visit can make you nervous. But you need to know what to expect during your first visit to make you comfortable and ease your mind.
Understand Your Reason for The Visit
Why are you going? Your body is changing and you have questions you need to ask a specialist. A gynecologist is the right person to discuss them with and get appropriate explanations. These issues can be:
- Birth control options
- Hormonal or period problems
- STI testing
Before heading for that appointment, write down the questions you want to ask. It’s an early preparation process that ensures you ask all your questions without forgetting and getting your answers. Review your concerns during that appointment to enable you to leave the office satisfied. You need to be a better advocate for your body which means discuss all your concerns without holding back.
During that appointment, the doctor checks your blood pressure, weight, and height. You also undergo a pelvic exam if you are sexually active. Ask questions regarding your abnormal bleeding or painful periods if you experience any.
Pelvic Exam
Expect an external exam of your vulva, a vaginal or cervical exam, and a bimanual exam to analyze your reproductive organs. The pelvic exam enables the obstetrician or gynecologist to know if you have healthy ovaries and uterus. If there are any questions, feel free to ask. The doctor will explain the procedure to make you comfortable and avoid any surprises. Remember, the more you know, the less anxious you feel.
Birth Control
Ask for the best birth control prescription on that first visit. If there is a problem with your previous options, tell the doctor to get alternative birth control. The doctor will need your medical history and know your lifestyle to help them put you on the right birth control. For instance, if you forget a lot, then the doctor can recommend using IUD.
Don’t Bother Much About Appearances
Your pubic hair shouldn’t bother you or make you feel shy about it. Also, don’t be shy about other aspects of your body. As much as you feel self-conscious, remember, it’s what gynecologists do for a living and they don’t judge. Remember, you are there for medical purposes only. Before that appointment, you can opt to rinse your labia with water.
Get Real with the Gynecologist
Expect the doctor to ask personal questions regarding your sex life, periods, etc. Be ready and answer them all truthfully. Ensure you know your last period date before the appointment as you may be asked if you are experiencing any cramps, irregularity, pain, mood changes, and heavy bleeding. Also, expect questions concerning your sexual activity. The gynecologist won’t judge you no matter the answers, so be frank in your answering. Truth helps you get the right treatment.
Consult an obstetrician or gynecologist for an appropriate solution of your reproductive health issues. The doctors offer guidance to both teenage, younger women, and older women. Don’t hesitate to inquire. Schedule an appointment to know more.