There are many reasons why a routine visit to the gynecologist for a general check up each year is a good idea. Yet women find many reasons to avoid this. Women could put it off thinking that since they are in good health and experience no unpleasant symptoms, there is no need for a checkup.
Women also avoid visiting the gynecologist because of the anxiety, embarrassment and fear that the visit seems to bring on. It could be the expected pain and discomfort of undergoing a cervical exam. Or it could be the apprehension about that the doctor may react to symptoms in a dismissive or patronizing manner. Some women may simply be scared of what the doctor may find and this is the most important reason to try and detect what is wrong and to start timely treatment.
Tips to Prepare for the visit to the Gynecologist:
1. Pick a doctor you feel you will be comfortable with
If you are more comfortable with a female doctor, then you can look for a female gynecologist. Ask among friends and family for a recommendation. Speak to the doctor beforehand to get a feel of whether you will be comfortable consulting with them.
2. Make a list of problems
Making a note of all your major and minor ailments from home will help you cover all required subjects with your gyno. Questions that you have, doubts that you want addressed can all be answered by the doctor.
3. Prepare yourself physically
Have a shower and pay attention to personal grooming prior to the doctor’s visit because this will help you feel better and more confident about yourself. Remember not to douche because this may mean that the doctor gets an inaccurate assessment of the situation. And you should remember that nothing is likely to surprise the doctor; they have literally seen it all before!
4. Try and relax
When you’re actually on the exam table, try and physically relax, because tense muscles will just cause more discomfort. Try deep breathing, think of unrelated, mundane things to take your mind of the moment.
5. Have more than one consultation
To make a proper diagnosis or to rule out a problem, more than one consultation may be needed. And if you aren’t satisfied with the visit to the gynecologist for any reason, don’t hesitate to get a second opinion to confirm or rule out what you suspect.
