Every woman’s health needs are unique in general, and gynaecologists are highly trained to deal with every situation uniquely. Despite finding a gynecologist in Lake Mary not being a difficult task, it is normal to feel anxious about going in for your appointment, especially if it is your first or you are not used to such visits. However, it is good to know how to fight the anxiety to improve your experience with your gynecologist. Knowing what to expect is a great move towards helping you overcome your fear, and the following tips can help you.
Know the Basic Information You are Required to Provide
It is good to be ready to provide some basic information on your appointment to help you reduce your anxiety. The information is essential in helping your provider get the baseline of your overall health. Your gynecologist might want to know when you last had your periods, if the periods are regular, how long you bleed, or if you suffer from any discharge. Your provider will also want to understand your sexual health and may want to know if you experience pain during intercourse, how many partners you have, or if you use protection.
Be Ready to Discuss Your Medical History
When your provider has the basic information mentioned earlier, it is essential to dig further into your medical history. Your genealogist will want to know if you have ever been hospitalized before, if you had miscarriages before, if you have children, or if you have any problems urinating. Additionally, your provider will need to review the contraceptive you are currently using and evaluate if it affects you.
Prepare to Undress
It is highly advocated that you wear comfortable clothes that you can easily remove when you go for your examination. You will need to remove the clothes as your provider instructs for further examination like a physical exam. But do worry not; you will be provided with a hospital gown and a sheet to cover yourself. However, if you are uncomfortable, it might be helpful to ask a close family member or friend to be with you in the exam room.
Be Ready for a Breast Exam
Your doctor will request a breast exam during your gynecological visit to check for irregularities like lumps. Therefore, prepare psychologically for the breast exam. Your provider will carefully palpate your breasts using their hands and do it professionally, one breast at a time. This also creates a good time to learn how to carry out a self-breast examination while at home.
Understand What to Expect in a Pelvic Exam
A pelvic exam is another important examination your provider will recommend on your visit. You will recline on your back and place your knee at rest and apart during your exam to provide a good angle for your provider to do the exam. Although it might seem difficult at first, it becomes easier with subsequent visits. But be sure to ask your provider any relevant questions to improve your comfort.
Be ready for a Pap Smear or a Vaginal Swab
Your provider may recommend a vaginal swab to check for STDs like gonorrhoea, human papillomavirus and chlamydia. Also, they may recommend a pap smear where some cervix cells are collected using a spatula to be tested if they are precancerous or cancerous. Your provider can also check for irritation or redness on your vaginal walls.
Talking with a gynecology specialist at Christopher K. Quinsey MD, P.A. can help you prepare for your exam. Book your consultation appointment today for help. Your provider will assist you in getting ready for your visit.
