afraid of going to the gyno

iVillage Member
Registered: 01-21-2004
afraid of going to the gyno
3
Sun, 08-27-2006 - 3:48am
I'm 21 years old, and i have to go to the gyno for the first time in a few days. The whole idea of the medical exam makes me really anxious, the thought of being so exposed while a total stranger (at least my doctor is a woman) sticks things and fingers around totally freaks me out. I know doctors are used to it and that it's natural for many women, but i can't help feeling like this, although i'm the opposite when i'm dating someone : i'm not shy of walking around naked or leaving the lights on, even on the first time with someone. Any advice ?
iVillage Member
Registered: 12-30-2003
Sun, 08-27-2006 - 2:13pm

Hi

      Jill

    

iVillage Member
Registered: 01-16-2006
Tue, 08-29-2006 - 5:44pm

Communicate with your doctor and tell him/her that you are feeling anxious. Ask them to use a small speculum and to take things slowly. If it's done well, a pelvic exam and pap smear doesn't have to be remotely uncomfortable. You might want to ask the doctor to explain the whole process to you before he gets started so that you're not surprised by anything that happens.

 

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-04-2008
Tue, 03-04-2008 - 5:06am
just pretend that you're at the dentist, close your eyes and listen to what the doctor says. Relax yourself