The Gynecologist

When to schedule your first exam with a gynecologist.

May 7, 2010 at 4:44 pm Leave a comment

Your first gynecololgic visit can be a daunting prospect at any age.  But with a better idea of what to expect, there’s no reason for your visit to be intimidating, uncomfortable, or painful.

It is appropriate to make an appointment to see a gynecologist for the first time, whatever your age, for any of the following reasons:

1. If you are considering becoming sexually active and need to discuss contraceptives and STD prevention
2. If you are already sexually active
3. If you have not been sexually active, but are experiencing symptoms which may be related to your menstrual cycle (such as pain, irregular cycles or excessive bleeding) 
4. If you think you may be pregnant
5. If you think for any other reason you might need gynecologic care.  (Even if you might be wrong.)

Some organizations recommend seeing a gynecologist by age 21 even if none of the above applies to you. 

It is not unusual to bring a parent, a good friend, or your partner to your first visit.  It can help to have someone there to share your concerns, be an additional listening ear, or to calm your nerves.  They don’t have to go into the examining room with you.  Most of the time, they don’t want to anyway. 

There should always be a time during your visit when your doctor gives you the opportunity to discuss things with him or her alone, so that you can discuss private issues in PRIVATE, without alienating the person who accompanied you.  This is especially important to remember if you are under 18 and you are considering bringing a parent.

A note on timing: The best time to schedule your visit is about a week after your period.  However, it may not be necessary to cancel your visit if you are still bleeding the day of your exam.  If you are unsure, call ahead and ask if your provider recommends that you still keep your appointment.  Most providers don’t charge a cancellation fee if you need to reschedule.

Entry filed under: Gynecology. Tags: becoming sexually active, contraception, gynecologic exam, gynecology, over 21, pain, STD prevention, under 18.