Everything You Need to Know About the Gynecologist

A gynecologist is an important member of your healthcare team if you have a vagina, cervix, or breast tissue. Regardless of gender or sexuality, it is important to make regular visits to the gyno! They can provide cancer screenings, sexual health check-ups, and safer sex advice. Trusting your doctor is important because you are sharing personal and intimate details in exchange for personalized and relevant healthcare. This is why we put together everything you need to know about the gynecologist!

The right doctor can make all the difference. Some people get nervous going to the gyno even for routine visits, especially if you have never been. The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists recommends that young womxn see a gynecologist for the first time between 13 and 15 years of age. Though most wait until they become sexually active or if they are experiencing issues like heavy bleeding or pain with periods.

So, without further ado, here is what you need to know about the gynecologist...

Choosing a Good Gyno

One of the easiest and best ways to choose a gynecologist is if they come highly recommended by your primary care provider, friends, and relatives. Check their reviews on websites like healthgrades.com, vitals.com, and zocdoc.com. A few negative ratings are worth reading to see what the patient said, but dozens of poor ratings should be a big reg flag. Your gyno should be experienced and transparent with their credentials.

Make sure they accept your insurance, if you have it, as costs can add up quickly out of pocket. Your gyno should have good bedside manner that makes you feel comfortable. This is the doctor that will guide you on birth control, performs your gynecological exam, and answers questions about reproductive health. You need trust for this relationship to work.

Gender may be an issue when choosing a gynecologist. For example, some womxn prefer female gynecologists. Some womxn may be trans and require a gynecologist with similar values in order to feel comfortable. You may want a quick consultation before a proper visit, and you can ask the practice if they can accommodate that.

If you are uncomfortable with your gynecologist for any reason, then you need to find a new one.  Your health is important and you deserve to be treated with dignity and respect by your physician and their staff. In the US and Canada, you can check RadRemedy or the Gay and Lesbian Medical Association for trans-friendly gynecologists.

What To Expect at the Gyno

It helps to know what to expect the first time you go to a gynecologist to help reduce nerves about the process. First, they may ask you for a urine sample which can be tested for pregnancy and some STIs. They may also take your weight, blood pressure, and temperature.

The doctor will check your breasts or chest for lumps or discharge and ask you about pain or anything unusual. If you have a vagina and cervix, your doctor will perform a pelvic examination. You will undress at least the bottom half, lie in a bed with your feet in stirrups and wiggle all the way down to the bottom of the table. Your doctor will examine the vulva for any signs of irritation, discharge, warts, or other conditions.

They may or may not test for infections, although you usually must request them. It's a great idea to get tested regularly for STIs.

The doctor will insert one or two fingers inside your vagina and press on your abdomen to check that you do not have fibroids, cysts, or tumors. The doctor will also use a speculum to open your vagina and look at your cervix, collecting a small sample of cells for a pap smear. There may be a feeling of pressure, but if you are experiencing pain, then tell your doctor.

Dealing With Nerves at the Gyno

More than half of womxn feel nervous to go to the gynecologist for a routine pelvic exam according to a 2009 study. But there are many ways to reduce anxiety about going to the gyno. You can bring a friend or relative with you, whether they wait in the lobby or go back to the exam room with you. Your gyno may still want a few minutes alone to allow for disclosure of sensitive information like your sexual experiences or domestic abuse.

Some womxn may also want to discuss their pronouns and what they call their body parts before the examination. If your gyno is not understanding or something feels off, then do not proceed with the pelvic exam, if you have those parts.

Ask as many questions as you can think of especially if you are nervous about the process. Share with your doctor if pelvic exams are difficult for you, or if it is your first one. They may be able to help you relax and feel more comfortable.

During the pelvic exam, look up at the ceiling and wiggle your toes. Breathe and relax your muscles. The speculum may not exactly be pleasurable, but staying relaxed can make the process quicker. You may also need to take ibuprofen or aspirin before an exam if your discomfort turns into pain.

Regardless, feel empowered that you are taking care of your body by going to the gyno! It's important to go and make sure your sexual health is in check. Stay informed and confident by learning everything you need to know about the gynecologist to ensure your sexual health and wellness.