OB-GYN Visit Facts!

Many of us may go to the Ob-Gyn Doctor not knowing what to expect on our visit.  Below is what you should exepect your doctor to do and if any of these things are not done make sure to ask questions.

• According to the ACOG (The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists) they suggest that girls visit with a gynecologist as early as 13 to 15 years old or when they become sexually active.  The first visit for teens may just include a talk with the doctor and no exam.
• Before going to your appointment avoid douching 24 hours before your appointment as it can interrupt your Pap test results.
• Avoid sexual intercourse 24 hours before as that can irritate the tissue of your vagina and also affect your Pap test results.
• The appointment usually starts with the nurse checking your weight, blood pressure and in some cases there may be a urine test done.
• After the above is done the physical exam begins.  You will be taken into the exam room and the nurse will have you undress from head to toe and you will be given a gown that opens to the front and a sheet to cover your lap.
• Before the exam, questions will be asked about family history of health, your sexual activity, when your last menstrual cycle was, etc.
• During the examination process the doctor will examine the vulva area and vaginal opening for abnormalities, the reproductive organs will then be examined from the inside while your knees are up and your feet in stirrups to keep them apart.  The doctor will use a device called a speculum to hold the vagina open and during this process you may feel pressure but it should not be painful. 
• If you are sexually active the gyn will take a swab of tissue during the pelvic exam and send it in for STD testing.
• If there is anything out of the ordinary that has happend to you prior to your appointment (vagina discharge for instance) feel free to ask your doctor as that is what she is there for.

FYI:  There are male and female doctors in this industry.  If you don't feel uncomfortable with one or the other please let the doctor's office know that before you make an appointment.

Hope this information helps some of you ladies and gives you an idea of what to expect.

Remember an annual pap smear is very important as it helps to keep your reproductive health on track.  Of course if any new issues arise before your next appointment feel free to speak to your doctor.

Stay Fab!