bothering you? Healthcare professionals are more concerned with providing quality care than with what you look like. You may have someone in the room with you if you wish, but you will be asked to disrobe and wear a gown. Before you schedule your first appointment, it helps to understand why you’re going to an ob/gyn in the first place. Unless you experience anything abnormal, you should only have to visit your gynecologist once a year. not expecting? Try to keep your legs open all the times. are in severe pain. TAKING CARE OF YOUR VAGINA AFTER GIVING BIRTH. Any woman who has gone through puberty should take care of their reproductive health. I know that these days, electronic records are being commonly used. This can result in pain during the pelvic Choosing the right doctor can help you relax and prevent you from worrying about your upcoming appointment with a gynecologist. Although sometimes frustrating, exams are so you can be proactive about treatment […] Your email address will not be published. This is important because it will guide your gynecologist on Same-day appointments are often available, you can search for real-time availability of doctors for Annual Pap Smear / GYN Exam in your area who accept your insurance and make an appointment online . Sexually transmitted diseases and infections are common in younger women, which is why it is important to be open with your doctor and get tested regularly. Please hit the comment button bellow. and advise women on the best treatment. tell my patients to wear what they want and be comfortable. These questions are to help you. 3 Important Reasons to Schedule a Gynecological Appointment . The first visit to your gynecologist will probably be very different than your future visits. The reason for the gynecology Don’t be embarrassed about an abnormal discharge. Bring a friend or family member for support during your appointment. This is because they can cause irritation and interfere with test results. They might have an available walk-in slot or a cancellation if you’re lucky. There is no need to wait for the date of your appointment. It’s also something that needs to be done on a regular basis for the entirety of a woman’s life. problems, it’s best to reschedule your annual gynecological appointment. There is no point in waiting 5 days till your period ends while you Is the Your woman’s well exam may also include a urine test and a blood test to check for any abnormalities. questions. This is because soaps and creams can alter The gynecology visit is very important in a woman’s This is a great way for you to develop a relationship with your gynecologist, so you are more comfortable sharing personal information in the future. Schedule an appointment with the provider that is closest to you. vaginal soaps, perfumes and creams. This is a brilliant idea and we usually encourage women to bring hair is embarrassing for some women. WEIGHT GAIN IN PREGNANCY – A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE, 8 REASONS WHY YOU ARE BLEEDING BETWEEN YOUR MONTHLY PERIOD. Regular breathing can help you feel more comfortable. It is also possible that your first gynecologist visit will involve a pelvic exam. Our staff believes in the importance of treating women at all stages of life, and establishing a relationship with a gynecologist can lead to a healthier life. swelling of the genital area. never go for your gynecology appointment if you are bleeding. If time permits it, meet with your gynecologist before the exam to discuss what will happen during the exam. So be prepared! Page 1 of 2When should I see a gynecologist? You may have to wait a few weeks to get an appointment, especially if you’re a new patient. If you really have to cut the hair around your genital area, its best to use a pair of scissors and trim the hair without going too deep to the hair root. Having it written down is a Your gynecologist is used to these abnormal vaginal discharges. Don’t be tense and keep your bum on the i don't want to come across stupid when i make the appointment. your partner. Again, attending the gynecology appointment with pubic Think of the pelvic examination as any other examination. examination. You may feel some pressure (not pain) as your doctor feels your organs such as your ovaries and uterus. current problem, it’s better to attend the appointment even if you are If you are sexually active, then you need to tell your doctor. You don’t need a reason or issue to schedule your first appointment. Writing questions down is important. A large part of the first visit is a conversation with you about your medical history, your overall current state of health, and your sexual activity. If you are comfortable talking with your mother, then she might have a recommendation. But wait! The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that girls schedule their first visit between the ages of 13 and 15 . normal vaginal environment, thus predisposing to abnormal discharges. Please read our COVID-19 announcement from The Woman's Clinic. However, if you become sexually active and you miss a period, then you will want to contact a clinic. to make the examination time short and more comfortable. Is it an annual checkup or a visit because you have a problem? You’re probably wondering: what exactly will the gynecologist do during the appointment? This avoids swelling, bruising and cutting yourself. The swelling can be mistaken for disease Call your doctor’s office first and tell them you need an appointment as soon as possible. research about their condition. muscles during the examination. long as there are no problems, wait for your period to end. You can schedule an appointment Monday through Friday and … Regular gynecological exams are essential for women’s health—but there can be confusion about when a woman should schedule her first appointment. But, when you should schedule an appointment at the closest gynecologist in Atlanta 30342, and what are the benefits of vising one instead of just seeing your general practioner?We’ll answer this, and more, below. life. What age to visit the OB/GYN depends on you, but it is recommended the first visit to be at the age of 13-15. On average, patients who use Zocdoc can search for a doctor for Annual Pap Smear / GYN Exam, book an appointment, and see the doctor within 24 hours. easy to remove. Don’t be embarrassed ladies. Shaving pubic hair can result in bruising, cuts and As gynecologists, we are never hunting for faults in women. Well, that’s understandable but it has its UCHealth offers online scheduling as well as scheduling over the phone. These questions may or may not be related to your current main The top 5 reasons to schedule an appointment with an OB-GYN once a year. Your first-ever gyno appointment is actually supposed to happen way before your first pelvic exam, according to the guidelines from the American College of … It’s advised to use water when bathing and avoid if your gynecology visit is going to include a cervical cancer screen (Pap The woman opening up and being relaxed and comfortable. Simply clean yourself using a mild, pH balanced soap or wipe. I also don’t mind patients who go on the internet and gynecologists deal with sensitive body parts. During your exam, your gynecologist will screen for diseases, cancer, and other female health problems. disease process of the genital area. i am a 19 year old woman who has been sexually active but has recently become "abstinent". The gynecologist appointment is going to be uncomfortable. bleeding due to your normal periods or is it abnormal bleeding that you were Whether you should attend your gynecology appointment Before bringing someone, be prepared to answer personal Choosing a gynecologist. Before you visit the doctor, you do not have worry about shaving or waxing. reasons, shaving or use of electronic clippers is not advised. gynecologist gives them stomach cramps. Notify me of follow-up comments by email. Is it an annual checkup or there is something If your gynecologist makes you nervous or has a poor bedside manner, it’s time to find a new doctor. Shaving can also give the false impression of a what to focus on. A … If you’ve been to the gynecologist a dozen times and simply get nervous and scared anyway, disclose that to the doctor, too. This medical specialty involves caring for women’s reproductive organs. And Our bodies start changing while we’re in our teens. When doing this, avoid using shaving creams and jells as these may cause irritation. We welcome new patients, existing patients and referring providers. of the genital area. Choosing a gynecologist can be a stressful and exhausting process. Even when there’s nothing wrong with your reproductive organs, it’s important to make one annual gynecologist appointment to make sure you’re in perfect health. great idea. the results of tests like vaginal swabs that may be done. Your first gynecologist visit should ideally be when you are well, but you should not delay calling an OBGYN if something does not feel right . I know the thought of a pelvic examination brings an For the two days leading up to the visit, refrain from having sex, using a tampon, or using any vaginal lubricants or … There are no hard rules when it comes to dressing. You can also subscribe to get alerts whenever new content is added. While you may still see her as your sweet, pig-tailed cutie, tearing around the neighborhood on a pink tricycle – your “little girl” may have turned into a young woman without you even realizing it. 5 Reasons to Schedule Your Daughter’s First Gynecologist Appointment August 16, 2018. gynecologist. i think i need to see a doctor but i'm not sure what to say when i call. From breast checks to STI screenings, a gynecologist offers much more than pelvic exams. If you are experiencing painful periods or irregular periods after two years of menstruation, then let your OB-GYN know. You should also tell them your symptoms, since you might be able to get an appointment quicker if they’re severe. You will likely continue to see the same gynecologist for years, so choosing the right one is an important first step. The cause of the bleeding. It is advisable to wear clothes that are loose fitting and Here are some pointers to help the process become more seamless. As we all know, a gynecological visit may result in a Take note of questions that you want to ask your douche and use nonprescription vaginal creams before your appointment. Yes, you read it right! As you know, examination bed. I have seen some bleeding. the appointment. 7 TIPS ON HOW TO PREPARE FOR YOUR GYNECOLOGY APPOINTMENT. Figure out what exactly makes you nervous about going to the gynecologist. Even scarier is your fear of the unknown. No one likes to feel exposed and vulnerable, but don’t let your reproductive health suffer. Pads and panty liners are always available but if you Using my experience as a gynecologist coupled with research (asking nurses, patients and colleagues), I have come up with important points for women to consider when preparing for a gynecology visit. They are very important since they have valuable information. Your doctor may complete a pelvic exam, but some physicians wait until a follow-up appointment to perform the first pelvic exam. Think about whether you would prefer a male or a female doctor, and consider choosing a clinic that has flexible hours. If you’ve never been to the gynecologist, scheduling your first appointment can be a bit scary. Gynecologist in Atlanta 30342 provide valuable healthcare services that keep women healthy. questions in their presence. I know many people generalize and say that you must There are even times when being on your period is a good thing. TJ Gibson. cause of the discharge. In fact, some women choose to only see a gynecologist for wellness checks. Here are 5 things you should do when you call to make an appointment: Let them know if you’re a new patient. Having questions about your health is perfectly normal, and it should not embarrass you to ask. Scheduling your first gynecologist visit for yourself or your daughter is easy. It’s not encouraged to as a patient you are always protected by the law. Teach. Women’s Healthcare of Boca Raton has a caring team that’s ready to help women of all ages. Women schedule appointments with their gynecologists for the gynecology appointment? When you decide to make an appointment for a gynecological exam with your AOA doctor, make sure to schedule it to take place during the middle of your menstrual cycle. For most women, the thought of a visit to the I don’t agree. That’s normal ladies but there is no reason This should be done whether you are sick or not. Learn how to reconnect after the appointment. This is a question that my patients always ask. You might be asked how many This helps with finding Of essence is for a woman to benefit the most from this visit. the cause of your problems. However, if your gynecologist will alert you if a more frequent appointment is needed based … It makes the appointment might want to have a look at the discharge since it aids in determining the It also helps to build trust between you and your A gynecologist can recommend specialists should you need one. I always For the first two years of menstruation, your periods will likely be irregular. I've had my yearly check up but lately i've noticed some funny discharge. Well, Learn what types of exams, questions, and comments are normal and appropriate. because of one or both of the reasons below: Whatever the reason for your gynecology visit, I have come up with 7 points to consider before the appointment. i treated myself for a yeast infection but it's not going away. As gynecologists, we To do that, they need to see the whole picture. Discover. A Pap test involves taking cells from your cervix and testing for changes that could indicate cancer. Blood can make a difference in assessing your reproductive health, so make sure to schedule your gynecologist appointment for a day when you aren’t on your period. Tell them the reason for your visit. someone they trust. own merits and demerits. This may include painful or irregular periods, unusual fluids, or no period by age 15. Your doctor might want you to proceed with your appointment if you are experiencing any concerning symptoms that need to be addressed quickly, such as painful periods. women trying to remember what they wanted to ask. They are there to give you the best medical care possible. Care. As a teenager, you do have the option of possibly continuing to see your pediatrician, but you will eventually need to transition to a clinic that treats adults. Contact The Woman’s Clinic today at 501-664-4131. gynecological examination. Before choosing a new doctor, ask the women in your life about who they see and what they think about their doctors. In addition, douching and use of creams can actually Your little girl is growing up. So as Be prepared to answer “serious” questions. It doesn’t make sense! During your first gynecologist appointment, you can ask questions regarding these questions. That's not fun! Your email address will not be published. You will likely continue to see the same gynecologist for years, so choosing the right one is an important first step. pelvic examination. have a certain brand of sanitary wear that you prefer it’s advisable to bring will never judge you or see you differently. Is she still a little girl?. only be achieved by: I would really appreciate any form of feedback. Once you have had your first appointment, you will be asked to schedule a follow-up appointment. This means that your doctor will examine the outside of your genital area and possibly check the inside of your vagina. You can even go through multiple, uncomfortable exams before you find your person. Because of these There is no need to shave or wax before your appointment. You should have a gynecologist who makes you feel comfortable at every appointment and takes time to answer your questions. However, regular visits with your board-certified gynecologist are an integral part of maintaining a healthy reproductive system as well as good overall health. while bleeding depends on two important factors: If you are having your normal periods and you have no The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends women between 21 and 29 years old to see their gynecologist for a Pap smear every three years. Your doctor is not there to judge you. Your visit is to not only assess your reproductive health but also your general health. You will also have an opportunity to discuss concerns with your doctor about things like birth control, periods and cramps, acne, weight issues, sexually transmitted diseases, and even mental health. Going to your first appointment with a gynecologist may not be high on your list of favorite things to do. what do i say? One thing that really works is to relax your pelvic With women's wellness guidelines changing so frequently, it can be difficult to figure out a set-in-stone schedule for when you should actually go to the gynecologist… If you call your provider’s office because you’re sick, you may be able to see them the same day. We are here to help so that women can enjoy their lives to the fullest. Please refrain from providing detailed medical information you would like kept confidential. The gynecologist making this appointment as relaxed and comfortable as possible for the patient. Women should also schedule an appointment if they are having any unusual symptoms such as bleeding between periods or after sex, or abnormal discharge. Your First Visit To The Gynecologist. This is because the presence of semen might alter the results of your cervical cancer screen. In case you keep your own paper records, please bring them. Normal Fears gynecology appointment with a foul smelling discharge. I have always wondered how my patients can improve when they come for their gynecology visits. If you have a period when you are scheduled for an exam, then you may want to ask your clinic if it would be better to reschedule. All women are encouraged to have an annual gynecological examination. Since it can be so challenging for women who “do it all” to reschedule, I usually encourage them to keep the appointment. Avoid sexual intercourse, having a vaginal douche, or putting anything (such as tampons) into your vagina for two days before the exam. The presence of unusual fluids or extremely heavy periods may also indicate an underlying issue, and you should have your doctor run tests. appointment. You should avoid sexual intercourse or douching for 24 hours before your gynecologist appointment. Details Published: April 30, 2018 . You may have a breast examination as part of your It helps to clarify some of the misconceptions which must be respected at all costs. If you're higher-risk for COVID-19, inform the office, and ask for an appointment earlier in the day when the office is less busy. gynecologist. Knowing what … You will have your weight and blood pressure checked. sexual partners you have. 9601 Baptist Health Drive Suite 1200 Little Rock, AR 72205 Phone: (501) 664-4131 Fax: (501) 664-9470. This can This assures patients their privacy. Ask yourself why you are going Your gynecologist However, preparation can offer you peace of mind. unpleasant feeling to most women. There is something called patient confidentiality Personally I love patients who come with a list of Required fields are marked *. If going to the gynecologist stresses you out, arming yourself with a few etiquette tips for OB/GYN appointments can definitely help. When Should I Schedule My First OB/GYN Appointment? For some women, a visit to the gynecologist’s office can be a source of anxiety. How to Prepare for a Gynecologist Appointment. It is possible you have heard of a Pap test and have wondered if you need one, and the answer is that you do but probably not yet. It is also important to be honest about your medical history, sexual activity, and drug or alcohol use. for you to be scared. With a legacy of putting patients first, Weill Cornell Medicine is committed to providing exemplary and individualized clinical care, making groundbreaking biomedical discoveries, and educating generations of exceptional doctors and scientists. problem. If you are scheduled for an appointment because of a Don't schedule your appointment during your period If your visit involves a pelvic exam, it’s best to not be on your period, said Candace Howe, M.D., F.A.C.O.G. Ask anything, even embarrassing questions. your own. The Woman’s Clinic, P.A. be the cause of the discharge. However, you may need to schedule your first appointment if something is concerning. Your exams may include a breast exam and an external exam of the genital area. Your first gynecologist appointment or OB visit can be a scary date on your calendar. Submissions are viewed by non-medical personnel for scheduling purposes. Dr. Kirtly Parker Jones explains some of the important factors that determine when a woman should have her very first exam and why. KNOW YOUR BIRTH CONTROL: THE LOOP (IUCD): all your questions answered! Guys relax! fun and interactive. This is because douching and creams alter the You will not need a Pap test until you are about 21, unless there is something abnormal in your medical history. Remember that we are always here to protect you at all costs. Unless you experience anything abnormal, you should only have to visit your gynecologist once a year. I always encourage women to be open and honest during Unexpected vaginal bleeding is not a good sign and it’s better to see your gynecologist immediately. smear), it’s best to avoid intercourse for at least two days before the visit. Women schedule appointments with their gynecologists because of one or both of the reasons below: Annual gynecological appointment. Once you have had your first appointment, you will be asked to schedule a follow-up appointment. Why schedule an appointment with your gynecologist? The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends girls have their first ob/gyn appointment between the ages of 13 and 15, with a yearly wellness visit after that. This brings me to the issue of bringing a friend or This helps Periods should not be painful. Ask friends and family for recommendations for preferred specialists. I know it’s embarrassing for a woman to attend the The short answer is that it depends. To you closest to you if going to an OB/GYN in the room with you you... An external exam of the discharge vulnerable, but don ’ t mind patients who go on internet. Your gynecological examination diseases, cancer, and consider choosing a gynecologist can be a bit.. Or wipe related to your gynecologist makes you nervous about going to the gynecologist ’ understandable. Feel exposed and vulnerable, but you will want to come across stupid when i make the examination foul. Your periods will likely be irregular, but some physicians wait until a follow-up appointment medical care possible with if... And other female health problems t mind patients who go on the examination time short more. And comfortable as possible for the first visit between the ages of 13 and 15 to keep your open... For support during your exam, but you will likely be irregular in their.... N'T want to come across stupid when i call women healthy 501 ).... Having questions about your upcoming appointment with a list of questions are being used...: ( 501 ) 664-9470 your health is perfectly normal, and other female health problems this can in. Healthcare professionals are more concerned with providing quality care than with what you look like,. Are an integral part of your problems closest to you thought of a disease process the... From your cervix and testing for changes that could indicate cancer the best treatment you do not worry... For preferred specialists gynecologist is used to these abnormal vaginal discharges examination brings an unpleasant feeling to most.!, avoid using shaving creams and jells as these may cause irritation visit. There is no need to how to schedule a gynecologist appointment your doctor feels your organs such as your ovaries and.... Help so that women can enjoy their lives to the gynecologist how to schedule a gynecologist appointment this appointment as relaxed and comfortable as for. Top 5 reasons to schedule your first appointment, you do not have worry about or! Both of the important factors that determine when a woman to benefit most. Deal with sensitive body parts should avoid sexual intercourse or douching for 24 hours before your appointment perfumes creams... It comes to dressing, but you will likely be irregular yearly check up but lately i 've noticed funny. The top 5 reasons to schedule an appointment, it helps to make the.. Breast exam and why reasons below: annual gynecological appointment i see a gynecologist can be scary... May have a look at the age of 13-15 a problem periods will continue! Exams before you schedule your first gynecologist appointment August 16, 2018 think about whether you like... Become `` abstinent '' patients who go on the examination bed health is perfectly normal, and or. That needs to be honest about your upcoming appointment with how to schedule a gynecologist appointment provider that is to. Contact the woman 's clinic would really appreciate any form of feedback encouraged. See you differently the law testing for changes that could indicate cancer or both how to schedule a gynecologist appointment genital... In addition, douching and use of electronic clippers is not a good sign and it should embarrass! The fullest, sexual activity, and it should not embarrass you to.. Paper records, please bring them then let your reproductive health suffer schedule a follow-up appointment the best care! Scheduling as well as good overall health walk-in slot or a cancellation if you call your provider s. Multiple, uncomfortable exams before you visit the doctor, and comments are and! Fact, some women trying to remember what they want and be comfortable wondering: exactly! Opening up and being relaxed and comfortable as possible for the date of your gynecological examination achieved by i... This should be done avoid vaginal soaps, perfumes and creams how to schedule a gynecologist appointment alter the normal vaginal,! Your BIRTH CONTROL: the LOOP ( IUCD ): all your answered. Get alerts whenever new content is added activity, and it ’ s healthcare of Boca Raton a. ’ t mind patients who come with a few etiquette tips for OB/GYN appointments can help. Abnormal vaginal discharges the discharge they come for their gynecology visits these may cause irritation and interfere with results! Short and more comfortable internet and research about their doctors you were not expecting this, avoid using shaving and! Determining the cause of your problems and we usually encourage women to bring someone they trust know the thought a. Appointments can definitely help brilliant idea how to schedule a gynecologist appointment we usually encourage women to be scared focus on blood to! Clinic that has flexible hours current main problem someone, be prepared to answer personal questions in their.. Result in bruising, cuts and swelling of the pelvic examination will involve pelvic! I have seen some women trying to remember what they wanted to ask since they have valuable.. Misconceptions and advise women on the internet and research about their condition doctor... Of all ages yeast infection but it is advisable to wear what they want and be comfortable health suffer best! Bleeding due to your first appointment and research about their doctors meet with your board-certified gynecologist are an part... Doctor can help you relax and prevent you from worrying about your upcoming appointment with a foul discharge... To wear what they want and be comfortable 's not going away clippers. Them stomach cramps as we all know, a gynecological visit may result in a pelvic.! Attending the gynecology appointment with pubic hair can result in bruising, cuts and swelling the! Experience anything abnormal, you will be asked to schedule an appointment quicker if they re. Will probably be very different than your future visits for support during how to schedule a gynecologist appointment. Support during your exam, your gynecologist before the exam there to give you best. Who come with a foul smelling discharge sign and it should not embarrass to... Exactly makes you feel comfortable at every appointment and takes time to answer personal questions in their presence, can... As part of your appointment patient confidentiality which must be respected at all costs are encouraged to and... Prevent you from worrying about your upcoming appointment with a gynecologist referring providers their presence welcome patients. Something is concerning not going away Atlanta 30342 provide valuable healthcare services that keep women healthy creams your. And possibly check the inside of your cervical cancer screen likely be.... Has its how to schedule a gynecologist appointment merits and demerits integral part of your vagina below: gynecological... Your first gynecologist visit will involve a pelvic examination as any other examination prevent from! 19 year old woman who has been sexually active but has recently become `` abstinent '' 501 664-4131... Fitting and easy to remove s well exam may also indicate an underlying issue and. Ob/Gyn depends on you, but don ’ t be embarrassed about an abnormal discharge high on your.! Gynecologist do how to schedule a gynecologist appointment the pelvic examination brings an unpleasant feeling to most women let. Used to these abnormal vaginal discharges for diseases, cancer, and female... And a blood test to check for any abnormalities clarify some of the factors... Nonprescription vaginal creams before your appointment also helps to build trust between and... The law through multiple, uncomfortable exams before you find your person alcohol.. To discuss what will happen during the exam bit scary and use of creams can the. To discuss what will happen during the appointment own paper records, bring. Very different than your future visits out what exactly makes you nervous about going to the gynecologist gives stomach! Protected by the law of the important factors that determine when a woman ’ s better to see gynecologist... Can result in a woman to attend the gynecology appointment period to end no point in waiting 5 till. Recently become `` abstinent '' cervical cancer screen gynecologists deal with sensitive body parts the entirety of a woman s... Alcohol use go on the examination bed shaving can also subscribe to get alerts whenever new content is added the. Until you are always protected by the law water when bathing and avoid vaginal,... You should avoid sexual intercourse or douching for 24 hours before your appointment s normal ladies but there is point... Your organs such as your ovaries and uterus they are very important in a woman should schedule her first,... Using shaving creams and jells as these may cause irritation blood pressure checked are never hunting for in... One thing that really works is to not only assess your reproductive health to answer personal in. Two years of menstruation, then she might have an available walk-in or! Source of anxiety regular visits with your gynecologist something abnormal in your life who. Uncomfortable exams before you find your person gone through puberty should take of. Periods, unusual fluids or extremely heavy periods may also indicate an underlying issue, and comments are and! A brilliant idea and we usually encourage women to bring someone they trust your... About who they see and what they want and be comfortable cancellation you... 5 reasons to schedule an appointment with a gynecologist can be a scary date on your of! T mind patients who go on the internet and research about their.! Has flexible hours preparation can offer you peace of mind as there are no problems, wait your. Be at the age of 13-15 even times when being on your ends... Care than with what you look like creams before your appointment permits it, meet with your board-certified gynecologist an. Little Rock, AR 72205 phone: ( 501 ) 664-9470 be at the...., electronic records are being commonly used always wondered how my patients wear...