If you are scheduling your first gynecological exam, you probably have many questions running through your mind. It’s normal to be nervous for your first visit to the OBGYN, but there is no reason to be scared. It’s important to make a yearly visit to your gynecologist to stay informed and get the right treatment for your individual health needs.
Here are a few things you should expect at your first OBGYN appointment!
Before Your Exam
When you’ve decided to make an appointment for a gynecological exam, schedule the visit when you’re in the middle of your menstrual cycle. Avoid sexual intercourse, having a vaginal douche, or putting anything (such as tampons) into your vagina two days before the exam. Think about the questions you’d like to ask your provider during the visit. Writing your questions down will make them easier to remember. Some areas where you may have questions include irregular periods, birth control methods, painful periods, common infections, and mood swings related to your periods.
The Day of Your Exam
On the day of your first annual pelvic exam, wear uncomplicated, comfortable clothes to feel calm when it comes time to undress. Before your gynecological examination, the nurse will take your blood pressure and weigh you. New patients will often meet their provider for an introductory phase of the appointment. If you need a pelvic exam, you’ll be given a robe and asked to undress in the room’s changing area. Then you’ll sit on the exam table waiting for your provider to return.
When your provider comes back into the room, they’ll do your exam. If you have a pelvic exam, you’ll be asked to put your feet in the footrests/stirrups and scoot down the exam table. This can feel a bit invasive and uncomfortable, but remember that these exams are necessary for keeping you in the best of health.
After Your Exam
After your exam, you will get dressed and schedule any other appointments or tests you might need. A nurse will follow up a few weeks later with any test results by phone or email.
A gynecological exam can provide you with answers and accurate information about any questions concerning your changing body, sex, sexuality, and menstruation. It also allows you to learn about healthy lifestyles, pregnancy prevention, and sexually transmitted diseases.
At South Avenue Women’s Services, our mission is to provide understanding and compassionate care to all women, whether they are considering pregnancy termination or are in need of well-woman services like pap smears and mammograms.
Call us today at (585)271-3850 to schedule your first gynecological exam!