Ladies, please help!?!
Question: When you go to the gynecologist for the first time, are you sore for the rest of the day? and what do they usually do the firs time you go?
Answers: When you go to the gynecologist for the first time, are you sore for the rest of the day? and what do they usually do the firs time you go?
The first check up you might feel nervous, but not to worry. That's why they are professionals and they see women all day long. You will have your breasts examined to check for lumps, a pelvic exam which is, the doctor will insert a plastic looking instrument inside your vagina and check to make sure all looks well. While the doc is doing this they take a swab and rub it around in your vagina. It's called a culture. It's just to make sure that everything is fine. No STD's, or bad cells, etc. Don't be nervous. It's for your health and well being. They usually have pictures on the ceiling so you have something to look at so you aren't nervous. As far as the rest of the day you should be fine. There is no real problems other then minor and I mean minor cramps for the first hour. Best of luck. I enclosed a link for you to read so you will understand more.
No you're not sore the whole day , I don't think. But they check you for and STD , .ect. I can't really tell you much because I havent seen 1 since 2005, I think I'll go too. But you have nothing to worry about.
They will do a full exam meaning a Pap and a pelvic, they will also do a breast exam and test your urine. Just ask them ahead of time and they will tell you. its not bad, really and No you shouldnt be sore all day.
We gal's have heard it all about going to the gynecologist's, or have we? There are so many questions out there that I decided it's time to get back in the business of answering your questions, even the ones you feel afraid to ask! Do you dare to go on? If you have any concerns or questions about going to the gynecologists, then do read on!
What is a gynecology?
The dictionary says that gynecology is a branch of medicine that deals with the diseases and routine physical care of the reproductive system of a woman. And a doctor for gynecology is called a gynecologist.
Can a Gynecologist be a man or a woman?
A gynecologist can be either a man or a woman. Some women are more comfortable with having a woman as their doctor. But many women see a male gynecologist. Both can do a great job. I currently have a male doctor and he is very professional and open-minded.
Why would a man become a gynecologist anyway??
A man becomes a gynecologist for the same reason a woman does. And that reason is not to study and memorize your vagina. Sometimes when guys are younger, they joke around about becoming a gynecologist but it really is a serious field. Both women and men see hundreds of patients and I doubt any doctors get any pleasure from seeing lots of female private parts. Of course you may never know but I have a man for my gynecologist and like I said before, he is very professional. And I get to have a female nurse in the room with me. That is the law; if you want a female nurse in the room, do request it.
When should I start seeing a gynecologist?
It is usually suggested that a woman start seeing a gynecologist when she first becomes sexually active. That way she can be tested for STDs, and other problems. At the same time she can find out about condoms, birth control methods and more. She can ask as many questions as she wants about her body and the gynecologist will do their best to answer them.
If you find a lump in your breasts, you should go see your gynecologist. If you are having irregular periods and want to find out more, see your gynecologist. If you have any questions about your sexual organs, see you're a gynecologist!
There are many reasons a woman goes. If you are not sexually active but still wondering about it, I suggest you start going when you turn 18. It's a good habit to get into when you're young.
How do I go about finding a gynecologist?
Well you can find out through your insurance company, if you have one. Many insurance companies have books of the doctor's names that are covered by their insurance. You can also look in the yellow pages, under gynecologists. If you are still having trouble, you may want to find out whom your Mom is seeing. You can probably see the same person! If you're in college, go to your local health center/nurse's office to find out more information. Some colleges have a gynecologist right on the staff.
I have called 3 doctor offices and none of the gynos are taking new patients, I dont know where to look anymore!?
Keep looking for a gynecologist. Look in the yellow pages. See if any of the docs you did call might know others in the area. Call your insurance group and have them send you a book of docs that are covered by the insurance, this might have more names.
Do I get to choose if I want to see a male or a female gyno?
Yes, you get to choose.
Is there something like the gynecologist for boys?
They have a prostate and testicular exam by their regular doctor usually.
I don't want my parent's finding out that I want to see a gynecologist? Now what? will the gyno tell my mom I had sex?
That's why looking in the yellow pages might help you find one that's local and easy to get to. Maybe you can ask another female family member or older female friend about seeing a gynecologist or getting a ride to and from the appointment. Doctor's are confidential. Some may have other rules if you are under the age of 18. If you find a gynecologist, ask about what the rules are when it comes to privacy. It's best to know ahead of time.
Why should I go to the gynecologist's?
There are many reasons you SHOULD go to the gynecologist's. Gynecologists test for STDs, cancers, pregnancy, and other problems such as fibroids, tumors, etc. They also do breast exams and can teach you how to better examine your own breasts incase there are lumps. They can answer questions about the menstrual cycle, about any pains you may have in your privates or in the abdominal area. They help many women learn about pregnancy and they also prescribe birth control.
But I don't want to be naked in front of a stranger and get poked and prodded!!
No one does, believe me. I have my second appointment EVER with my gynecologist soon and I still cringe. It's perfectly normal to feel scared and apprehensive when you go to the gynecologist's. They allow you as much dignity as possible during the exam. I wore a paper gown (that I ripped. Oops!) And they allow you to cover yourself up with a sheet or sometimes both a gown and a sheet. You can change out of your clothing and back into your clothing in privacy and they knock.
Should I or will I be uncomfortable? I am deathly afraid of going to gyno, how can I calm down?
You will feel a little weird, and sometimes it can be a little uncomfortable but your gynecologist knows what they are doing. Don't be afraid to ask lots of questions along the way and don't be afraid to make small talk to calm down! Breathe deeply and smile. Know you'll be healthy for another year:)
How long does an exam take?
It doesn't take long at all. I don't think there is a set time. They have to do a few things before you start the pelvic exam. In all I'd say under an hour is the time you'll spend getting checked out and the actual poking and prodding does not last very long at all if you relax.
What happens at the gynecologist's before the pelvic exam?
Before you have to take your clothing off, they will probably ask for a urine sample. You'll go down the hall and pee in a cup. So before you go to the docs, have a lot to drink and try to not go the bathroom, it can help if you have had trouble peeing on demand before!
They also may take blood. And they will take your temperature at some places as well as your blood pressure. They may weigh and measure your height. Every place is a little different. And they may have some questions to ask.
What kinda questions will the gynecologist ask me?
Be prepared to answer questions like:
"Are you sexually active, if so for how long? Was it protected sex?"
"Do any women in your family have breast cancer?"
"Have you had sex with anyone who you know has an STD?"
"When was your last period?"
"Have you had any vaginal discharge or spotting between periods?"
"Have you ever been pregnant?"
"Do you smoke, drink or take any drugs?"
They may ask about allergies or other kinds of cancer that may happen to some women and they might ask about your medical history. They may ask what kind of medications are you on? And so on and so forth.
It helps to ask your Mom about it or go with what you know. Answer honestly and to the best of your ability. Do not be ashamed! They don't ask so they can gossip about you. They ask because it will help them better understand your body and your needs. And that is important! Don't be afraid to answer, it is confidential.
Don't forget to also ask some questions of your own!
It is okay to write down a list of questions to ask your gynecologist, bring them with you! You can ask more about the exam. You can ask about STDs, pregnancy, the birth control pill or other methods of birth control. You can ask just about anything and a gynecologist will do their best to answer you. You can ask about confidentiality. You can ask them about sex. It may not feel comfortable at first but it helps to keep the communication lines open between the both of you.
I was raped but didn't tell anyone. Now my mom wants me to see the gyno for the first time, will he know I was raped and do I need to tell him?
Unless the rape was very recent, the doctor will not be able to tell. You should talk to the doctor about this because being tested for STDs is very important and many STDs can be treated if found early. The doctor will be confidential but might ask about you wanting to press charges or file a complaint, which is up to you. Many cases of rape go unreported and many rapists get away with their crime.
If the gyno asks if I am sexually active, do I say yes since I have not had intercourse, just fingered?
Tell the doctor you have not had intercourse but you have been having foreplay and don't forget about oral sex.
Do I have to have anyone in the room during the gyno exam, my mom or anyone?
I believe it's the law to have a nurse in the room if you want one, a female nurse that is. I don't think you have to have a certain person, they leave that up to you. Whatever you are most comfortable with. Make it clear if they ask or not.
What happens next?
Next will probably come the pelvic exam. It's not as bad as some make it out to be or you think it might be. My best advice to you would be to breathe deeply and relax. Smile; be glad you're doing this for your own health. Relax those muscles in your vagina, it will make things a lot easier and things will go faster, and of course we want that! Close your eyes and imagine something happy or funny:)
They may ask if you want a woman in the room, say yes, believe me it may seem silly but it may help you relax (even if your doc is a woman, ask about this option.) I know I have mentioned it before but it is important.
They will leave you alone for a few minutes to change into a paper gown. It will be cold and a little uncomfortable but remember, your body is not going to be judged or stared at in any wrong way.
They will ask you to lie down on the examination table. And you will be asked to put your feet up into something called the stirrups. Kind of reminds me of riding a horse lying down. Yes your legs will be spread open, but this is so it's easier for the doctor to access your vagina and get the exam over with. Like I said, it really does help to imagine yourself somewhere else.
The doctor may first start with a breast exam. This part is the easiest I think. You lay there and they feel. They feel for lumps or anything irregular. They ask if you feel pain. If it hurts, say so! Sometimes having a tender spot is a good thing and a normal thing. Watch how the doctor feels your breasts and ask how to do an exam yourself!
What do they do inside to your vagina?
Ask questions as the doctor continues. He or she can explain step by step what they are doing and why they are doing it. Sometimes it helps to ask before the pelvic part of the exam. First your gynecologist will check out your vaginal area for signs of irritation, discharge, warts, or other conditions. Next, they'll use a speculum to hold your vagina open so she can see your cervix. She'll take a look at your cervix for any abnormalities and collect a bit of fluid for a Pap test, to see if the cervix is healthy...
The doc might also test for STDs. (You usually have to ask for these tests specifically - you should talk to the doc first and decide together what kind of tests you should have.)
Then, wearing gloves, they will put one or two fingers in your vagina and press on your abdomen with the other hand. They'll feel your internal organs (the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries) to make sure they're free of fibroids, cysts, and tumors, and they'll check the size, shape, and position of your uterus. You'll feel some pressure during this part of the exam, but if you feel tenderness or pain, tell your doctor because this could indicate infection.
Finally, your clinician may insert a finger into your rectum to test the condition of your muscles and check for tumors in this area. Again, it's normal to feel a bit of discomfort and pressure, but this should only last a few seconds. I didn't have this done but each doc is different. Then they are done! yay!
What is a Speculum?
The dictionary defines this as an instrument inserted into a body passage for inspection or medication. It is a small metal tool, kinda like something a dentist uses to look inside your mouth because it has a tiny mirror on it! The more relaxed your muscles are in the vagina, the less awkward and strange this will feel. It may be a tad cold or uncomfortable, but the doc will use the smallest Speculum they have. You can ask the doc to look at one if you wish!
What is a cervix?
The cervix is a constricted portion of an organ or part; especially : the narrow outer end of the uterus.
What is a Pap test? What kind of fluid is collected?
It is sometimes known as a pap smear. It is a method for the early detection of uterine cancer(cancer of the uterus) that involves the staining of exfoliated cells(that are gathered with a q-tip like tool.) using a special technique which differentiates diseased tissue from healthy tissue. A "pap smear" is not the same thing as a pelvic exam, and is not done every time you have a pelvic exam. It is a VERY gentle scraping of the loose cells at the opening of the cervix. The cervix is located at the back of the vagina. The cells are put on a glass slide and examined under a microscope for any changes or abnormalities. The fluid collected is vaginal discharge and cells.
How often should I let the doc try and give me a pap smear?
I would do it yearly, some doctors do not every time. Ask what their procedure is and ask what they think is best. If you want one yearly, ask for it.
Gyno said he was going to give me a cultural test, what is it?
Pretty much the same thing as a pap test.
What is a uterus?
A uterus is an organ of the female mammal for containing and usually for nourishing the young during development previous to birth -- called also womb. That sounds familiar, right? You were in there at one time:)
What are Fallopian tubes?
A fallopian tube is either of the pair of tubes conducting the egg from the ovary to the uterus. This tube is the way the sperm travels to find your egg and this is the path the fertilized or unfertilized egg travels to find the uterus.
What are the ovaries?
An ovary is one of the typically paired essential female reproductive organs that produce eggs and in gals/women/teens it also produces female sex hormones, likes estrogen.
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~~ That is just the exam but I know there are a lot more questions on people's minds... ~~
I used to masturbate more often but I was afraid that the gyno would be able to tell...will they?
Masturbating is perfectly normal and very healthy! Its a lot safer than sex. and you are at no risk for STDs. Your gynecologist will not be able to tell that you masturbate. I don't really think that will matter to them or not because you are not at any risks because of it. It is really up to you if you want to talk about it but its usually not an issue.
If I go to gyno will he be able to help me see if I have a hymen?
A hymen is a pretty thin membrane in the vagina. No one really knows what it is for. Some girls are born without one. Some girls have a thinner one, some have a thicker. Sometimes sex breaks the hymen and causes bleeding (that caused the phrase, "popping someone's cherry.") Sometimes sex breaks the hymen and there is no bleeding. Sometimes the hymen is broken from playing sports, horse back riding, masturbation, or using tampons. I don't know if the doctor can tell if you have a hymen but I don't think that is what matters. The doctor is looking for abnormalities, or other lumps and bumps that shouldn't be on or in your vagina.
Will pelvic exam tear the hymen if I have not have sex before?
Most likely not. and like I said before, some girls don't have a hymen! There is usually no bleeding from a pelvic exam. Breakage of the hymen does not always mean you are not a virgin either!
It hurts each time we have sex, do I need to see the gyno to see if my hymen is in the way?
The hymen is probably not your problem. Sex usually breaks a hymen. Some girls are born without a hymen. A hymen would not prevent you from having sexual; intercourse. Try relaxing your muscles down there when you have sex and use lots of foreplay and lubrication!
Do I have to see a gyno before using tampons?
No way! You can go buy tampons and practice inserting them. Read the directions carefully:)
I can't get my tampon out, do I need to see the gyno and how soon?
I have never run into this issue before. It would help to buy some lubrication to help work the tampon out or try pulling it out as you pee. If worst comes to worst, you may have to just go to the Emergency Room at the hospital. Having a tampon in too long(over 8 hours) can cause problems and lead to infection.
What is douching? and should I do it before I see gyno?
Douching is basically cleaning the vagina with special cleaners you can buy from the store. They are supposedly used to flush out stuff that is inside and make you smell nice. but they really can push bacteria up inside and cause problems, like irritation or infection. It is best to not use them before you see the gyno. You may wash away important evidence. or wash away cells that are abnormal. It can also cause the pap smear to be less accurate.
The same goes for sex. Don't have sex 48 hours before seeing the gynecologist! It can make tests less accurate and who wants to go through an exam twice a year? Not me!
My period hurts a lot, can the gyno help me with that?
Yes. Cramps are very common for girls but they can signal other issues too. Talk to your doc about the cramps. Some docs recommend taking birth control to help with cramps. They may have other ideas or options that you haven't thought of. and if there is a problem, they can do some tests and find out!
Do I need to see the gyno if my period is every 2 weeks?
Yes, if your period continues so often, there could be a problem.
Will a gyno help me regulate my cycle?
Yes, a doctor can help. A gynecologist can help by asking about your family's history and perhaps prescribing birth control to make periods more regular. It helps if you keep track of your cycle and then show the doctor.
Many girls get on the pill to have regular cycles, should I see my gyno cause I am not regular?
At first your period may not be regular, give it time. If it never seems to get regular, talk to your gynecologist. Some women never have regular periods. but the birth control pill can help.
My cycle used to be regular each month, but now it never is. should I be concerned an see the gyno?
It happens for a lot of reasons, sometimes stress, sometimes a hormonal imbalance. It would be a smart choice to go to the gynecologist.
How should my period look? I mean, it is really lumpy and sometimes really really dark red, should I see gyno about it?
Every woman's period looks different. Sometimes it contains little clots and slightly bigger pieces of the shedded uterine lining. A period does not contain much blood and can be dark red, light red, to even a brownish color. If you still feel weird about it, go to the gynecologist!
All my friends started their period and I have not. Can a gyno make it start?
No, unfortunately. Every woman's body is different. If by the time you are 16, and you still don't have your period, then maybe I would get suspicious and ask a gynecologist about what it might be about. Just try and be patient for now.
I have not had my period and I am 16, should I see my gyno about it?
I would, just to make sure all is normal. Some girls start their period late. Ask mom when she started hers? It may give you some clue to when yours might start.
I have had my period now for 2 weeks straight and it wont stop. do I need to see gyno?
You could become anemic and weak. I'd go see your gyno asap. Even if it stops tomorrow.
What if I have my period when it's time for my exam?
They most likely will want to reschedule the exam. It will be less messy and tests will be MUCH more accurate when you're not having your period.
Are the birth control pills the gyno gives to regulate, are they the same as preventing pregnancy?
Usually but sometimes the doc may give you a lesser dose that may not be the best protection against pregnancy but it will help regulate your cycle. Ask the doc about the differences as well.
Do I have to go to the gyno to get on the pill?
I have to say yes to this one. They usually like to examine you before prescribing it to see if it's right for you.
When are you too young to go to the gyno and get birth control?
I don't think there is an age limit really but it really all depends from doctor to doctor. Ask your gynecologist! or call one if you don't have one and find out if you can just make an appointment to talk with the doc. If you are really young, the doctor will probably advise you against it. There are some clinics, like Planned Parenthood that might be more likely to give it to teens.
With the birth control pills the gyno gave me, can I use them to make my period come faster or make it stop?
I don't know about making your period come faster but you can stop your period with birth control. Doctors are still not sure if that is really healthy. So far it hasn't been a problem for many women. Talk to your gynecologist about it. Stopping your period will probably not be reccomended.
How do I know the gyno will give me the right birth control pill for me?
That is why they have to exam you and ask about family history and if you are sexually active. The more they know, the better they can find a pill that is right for you. It also may be a little about trial and error. The pill is not 100% safe.
Will the gyno be able to tell me about all the bad things about the birth control pill?They can tell you about the negative side effects. They also may have pamphlets that talk about them. My birth control pills come with directions that also state negative side effects, like depression.
The gyno gave me birth control pills but I forgot when I should start them?
You should start the sunday after your period starts. If your period is on a Sunday, start taking them that day during your period. Not all birth control is the same, however, so always call your doc about it and READ the directions from beginning to end.
When do I go back to the gyno and tell him the birth control pills he gave me are not working. I am not regular and I still get bad cramps?
Talk to your doc asap. Sometimes it takes a few months for the pills to start working their best. Try and be patient but tell your gynecologist how you feel.
I have this very heavy vaginal discharge, should I see gyno about it?
Does it smell funny/funky or look funny? If it doesn't seem normal, talk to your gynecologist. It could be anything, from an STD to a yeast infection.
What kind of bumps are normal to have and should I see a gyno if they are just there and don't itch or anything?
You could have an STD like Vaginal warts. yummy. They don't always itch. Sometimes bumps are ingrown hairs but they hurt or itch sometimes. Condoms cannot protect you from all STDs, so get checked out ASAP.
I get itchy after sex and it won't go away should I see my gyno about it?
It could be the sign of an STD. but it could also be that you are allergic to the condom or lubrication. Itching down there is a good reason to see the gyno to get tested.
If I thought I had a miscarriage, should I see the gyno?
Yes, yes and yes. You could get an infection if you still have any of the fetus inside of you. Get to a doc right away.
Is best to take the store pregnancy test or the one at the gyno office?
The store pregnancy test is quite accurate. It tests for the hormones called HGCs in your urine. These hormones are released by the baby to help prevent miscarriage. If you feel more comfortable having a doctor test you, then have it done ASAP.
If I took the pregnancy test from the drug store, and it is positive, should I take another one to confirm it or see my gyno and how soon?
The tests from the drug store are usually very accurate, but you can test again if you want to be sure. If you still feel unsure, a gyno can take a blood test to find out for sure. Then they can help you decide what you want to do. Do it as soon as you can.
We had intercourse and the and condom broke, should I call up my gyno office right away and will they give me something to prevent pregnancy?
Yes, they probably can. Just call ASAP within 72 hours of the condom breakage. If the office is closed or they cannot help you, call your local hospital. You may have to go to the emergency room to have a prescription written up.
If the pregnancy test I take at the gyno office says positive, will they help me find a place for an abortion?
I think every place is different. They may have someone they recommend to do the abortion. but they will probably also talk to you about adoption or keeping the child.
We are using condoms so do I need to see the gyno?/ I am having sex but dont want to see the gyno do I need to?
YES. Not all STDs can be prevented by condoms. You will have to start seeing the gynecologist anyway eventually, so better to start now and get to know your body.
I need to see the gyno for my menstrual cramps, will he ask if I had sex and should I tell him if I have?
Yes, and be honest. The doc isn't out to gossip about you. They need to know all info so they can help you to the best of their abilities.
I can't orgasm with sex, will my gyno help me see if anything is wrong?
They might be able to help you figure out what's wrong. Don't forget lots of foreplay and lubrication when having sex. There is a spongy spot inside right behind inside and below the belly button that is called the G-spot. If you can have your partner aim his penis there, it might help.:)
I think I feel a lump in my breast, will the gyno be able to tell me what it is or do I have to have an x-ray?
The gyno should be able to tell where the lump is and what kind it is. but a good gynecologist will suggest you get a second opinion. I got my second opinion from a breast surgeon my gynecologist recommended. My gynecologist could tell it was probably non-cancerous. I told him how long I thought the lump had been there and if it hurt when he pressed on it a little. It helped him diagnose it. If there is a lump and there should be further testing, you won't get an X-ray but you'll get an ultra sound, like the same sort of thing a woman gets on her belly when she's pregnant. Most young women do not get breast cancer but its better to be safe than sorry.
There's no reason for you to be sore for the whole day. The first time you go your doctor may sit with you outside the exam room in an office or in the exam room and talk to you first about your sexual history and your health, both general and gynecological, answering any questions you may have. After that you'll go into the exam and lay back on the table with your legs up and spread. The doctor inserts a tool to help open up the birth canal and examines it both visually and by palpating to make sure everything seems normal, and then takes a few swabs for testing for precancerous cells and for STDs if you wish her to. She may also ask for a urine sample at the beginning of the visit. It's very simple, somewhat uncomfortable, and a bit scary your first time so try and relax and make sure that you're comfortable with the gender of your doctor. You'll be fine!