Going to your initial gynecology appointment can be an overwhelming, uncomfortable experience. At CT Coastal OBGYN, we recognize that your reproductive health is sensitive and personal. We value your trust, and we want to ensure that you feel confident as you head into your first appointment. With that in mind—and to put you at ease—we’ve listed three simple tips to consider leading up to your appointment.

  • Know What to Expect

An initial GYN visit can vary for different reasons, including age, personal and family history, sexual activity, and presenting symptoms (if any). Expect that, regardless of the reason for your visit, the first portion of your exam will include an “interview” in which your provider will ask questions geared toward helping them better understand your individual needs. The more conversational you can be during the discussion, the better. Be honest and speak freely.

After the interview, your provider will conduct a physical exam. It will  typically consist of an external genital and internal vaginal/pelvic exam, and may also include a manual breast exam. If you are over 21, expect to have a pap smear done; if you are age 21 or over your provider will also add HPV testing to the Pap test list. During this time Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) testing samples may also be collected, but keep in mind that certain STIs, like HIV, Hepatitis B, and Syphilis can only be tested through a blood draw at a qualified lab. If STI testing is something that you are interested in, be sure to tell your provider so that they can order these for you.

  • Do a Personal Inventory

Your gynecologist is going to ask several seemingly intrusive questions at your initial appointment. This is normal, but it can feel overwhelming, especially if you are not prepared for the types of questions they may ask. One way to prepare yourself for these questions is to do a personal inventory before going to your appointment. Be ready to provide the date of your initial menses, the length of your cycle (for most women this is between 21-35 days), the date of your last menstrual period, and contraceptive methods that you may use, including condoms and other forms of birth control. You will likely also be asked about your history of sexual activity, current sexual partner(s), and previous sexual partner(s). In addition, you should expect your provider to ask if you are experiencing any gynecological or urinary symptoms. While these questions are all routine, your provider may elaborate and question you further if they feel it’s warranted throughout your visit. When doing your personal inventory, remember to jot down any specific questions that you may have for your provider.

Be Transparent

Discussing reproductive and sexual health is personal and can be unnerving. With that in mind, remember that it is important to remain transparent with your provider. When it comes to your health, there is no benefit to being anything but honest, even though it may seem intimidating. Finally, remember that we are here for you. At CT Coastal OBGYN, we value you and your health, we want to ensure the healthiest, happiest you; and we can only provide the best care possible based on the information you share with us. Transparency and mutual trust are key.

For more information or to schedule your first exam contact us at 203-562-5181 or visit our gynecology page to learn more.

Reference:

https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/cervical/basic_info/screening.htm#:~:text=The%20Pap%20test%20(or%20Pap,can%20cause%20these%20cell%20changes