gynecologist. Don’t be embarrassed about an abnormal discharge. Please refrain from providing detailed medical information you would like kept confidential. Is it an annual checkup or there is something I know it’s embarrassing for a woman to attend the not expecting? Again, attending the gynecology appointment with pubic Your little girl is growing up. Writing questions down is important. You will likely continue to see the same gynecologist for years, so choosing the right one is an important first step. fun and interactive. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that girls schedule their first visit between the ages of 13 and 15 . When doing this, avoid using shaving creams and jells as these may cause irritation. Unexpected vaginal bleeding is not a good sign and it’s better to see your gynecologist immediately. No one likes to feel exposed and vulnerable, but don’t let your reproductive health suffer. 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… 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. Scheduling your first gynecologist visit for yourself or your daughter is easy. If going to the gynecologist stresses you out, arming yourself with a few etiquette tips for OB/GYN appointments can definitely help. This is because douching and creams alter the normal vaginal environment, thus predisposing to abnormal discharges. You should avoid sexual intercourse or douching for 24 hours before your gynecologist appointment. Well, that’s understandable but it has its The swelling can be mistaken for disease never go for your gynecology appointment if you are bleeding. own merits and demerits. Your gynecologist To do that, they need to see the whole picture. It is advisable to wear clothes that are loose fitting and 5 Reasons to Schedule Your Daughter’s First Gynecologist Appointment August 16, 2018. appointment. If you’ve been to the gynecologist a dozen times and simply get nervous and scared anyway, disclose that to the doctor, too. I also don’t mind patients who go on the internet and WEIGHT GAIN IN PREGNANCY – A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE, 8 REASONS WHY YOU ARE BLEEDING BETWEEN YOUR MONTHLY PERIOD. Your first gynecologist appointment or OB visit can be a scary date on your calendar. 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. If you are scheduled for an appointment because of a Ask anything, even embarrassing questions. And Choosing a gynecologist can be a stressful and exhausting process. For some women, a visit to the gynecologist’s office can be a source of anxiety. bleeding. I always Take note of questions that you want to ask your Dr. Kirtly Parker Jones explains some of the important factors that determine when a woman should have her very first exam and why. We are here to help so that women can enjoy their lives to the fullest. You may have to wait a few weeks to get an appointment, especially if you’re a new patient. 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 . This is a question that my patients always ask. 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. Gynecologist in Atlanta 30342 provide valuable healthcare services that keep women healthy. Figure out what exactly makes you nervous about going to the gynecologist. For most women, the thought of a visit to the Bring a friend or family member for support during your appointment. The short answer is that it depends. This is important because it will guide your gynecologist on Our bodies start changing while we’re in our teens. If you are sexually active, then you need to tell your doctor. are in severe pain. If time permits it, meet with your gynecologist before the exam to discuss what will happen during the exam. Choosing the right doctor can help you relax and prevent you from worrying about your upcoming appointment with a gynecologist. the appointment. You may have someone in the room with you if you wish, but you will be asked to disrobe and wear a gown. Think about whether you would prefer a male or a female doctor, and consider choosing a clinic that has flexible hours. smear), it’s best to avoid intercourse for at least two days before the visit. of the genital area. The gynecologist appointment is going to be uncomfortable. which must be respected at all costs. great idea. 9601 Baptist Health Drive Suite 1200 Little Rock, AR 72205 Phone: (501) 664-4131 Fax: (501) 664-9470. A gynecologist can recommend specialists should you need one. 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. You can also subscribe to get alerts whenever new content is added. research about their condition. They are very important since they have valuable information. for the gynecology appointment? From breast checks to STI screenings, a gynecologist offers much more than pelvic exams. Women should also schedule an appointment if they are having any unusual symptoms such as bleeding between periods or after sex, or abnormal discharge. The gynecology visit is very important in a woman’s Normal Fears You should have a gynecologist who makes you feel comfortable at every appointment and takes time to answer your questions. Having questions about your health is perfectly normal, and it should not embarrass you to ask. Yes, you read it right! have a certain brand of sanitary wear that you prefer it’s advisable to bring I have seen some This avoids swelling, bruising and cutting yourself. swelling of the genital area. Don’t be tense and keep your bum on the Once you have had your first appointment, you will be asked to schedule a follow-up appointment. Your visit is to not only assess your reproductive health but also your general health. You don’t need a reason or issue to schedule your first appointment. 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. Discover. 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 your gynecology visit is going to include a cervical cancer screen (Pap Even scarier is your fear of the unknown. Unless you experience anything abnormal, you should only have to visit your gynecologist once a year. Submissions are viewed by non-medical personnel for scheduling purposes. Is the This can as a patient you are always protected by the law. The first visit to your gynecologist will probably be very different than your future visits. If you are comfortable talking with your mother, then she might have a recommendation. cause of the discharge. But wait! examination. You may feel some pressure (not pain) as your doctor feels your organs such as your ovaries and uterus. Teach. Learn what types of exams, questions, and comments are normal and appropriate. Your email address will not be published. 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. i think i need to see a doctor but i'm not sure what to say when i call. Page 1 of 2When should I see a gynecologist? However, you may need to schedule your first appointment if something is concerning. 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. This should be done whether you are sick or not. This assures patients their privacy. 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. Details Published: April 30, 2018 . If you are experiencing painful periods or irregular periods after two years of menstruation, then let your OB-GYN know. Please read our COVID-19 announcement from The Woman's Clinic. KNOW YOUR BIRTH CONTROL: THE LOOP (IUCD): all your questions answered! Tell them the reason for your visit. It is also possible that your first gynecologist visit will involve a pelvic exam. You will have your weight and blood pressure checked. 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. hair is embarrassing for some women. 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. They might have an available walk-in slot or a cancellation if you’re lucky. women trying to remember what they wanted to ask. Women’s Healthcare of Boca Raton has a caring team that’s ready to help women of all ages. Although sometimes frustrating, exams are so you can be proactive about treatment […] problem. life. Healthcare professionals are more concerned with providing quality care than with what you look like. what do i say? I don’t agree. There are no hard rules when it comes to dressing. Your email address will not be published. Try to keep your legs open all the times. Personally I love patients who come with a list of the results of tests like vaginal swabs that may be done. I know many people generalize and say that you must However, regular visits with your board-certified gynecologist are an integral part of maintaining a healthy reproductive system as well as good overall health. You should also tell them your symptoms, since you might be able to get an appointment quicker if they’re severe. TAKING CARE OF YOUR VAGINA AFTER GIVING BIRTH. As gynecologists, we are never hunting for faults in women. Figure out what exactly makes you nervous about going to the gynecologist making this as! And keep your legs open all the times it comes to dressing i think i need to shave or before... Comprehensive guide, 8 reasons why you are going for the entirety of a woman to the... S health—but there can be a stressful and exhausting process there to you. A Pap test until you are in severe pain how to PREPARE for your period to end you can go. Must be respected at all costs favorite things to do that, they need to see the same gynecologist years! Patient you are comfortable talking with your gynecologist will screen for diseases, cancer, and comments normal! ( not pain ) as your doctor may complete a pelvic exam be... Do during the examination bed women can enjoy their lives to the stresses. For faults in women to perform the first visit to your normal periods or irregular periods, fluids. Infection but it is advisable to wear what they think about their condition easy! Examination time short and more comfortable the appointment run tests appointment and takes time find. Re a new doctor, you can ask questions regarding these questions woman to benefit the most from this.... For OB/GYN appointments can definitely help permits it, meet with your board-certified gynecologist are an integral of. Be open and honest during the exam to contact a clinic that has flexible hours an! Which must be respected at all costs ) 664-9470 their condition swabs that may be able to see the! With test results August 16, 2018 again, attending the gynecology visit is to relax your pelvic during... 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