For many women, going to a gynecologist can be an awkward experience. For their doctor, it’s another story.
While experienced gynecologists are specially trained medical professionals who have no inhibitions when it comes to examining patients, they do have some things they wish patients knew – but they don’t always know who needs to hear what, so they usually don’t say anything.
Let’s talk about a few interesting facts surrounding gynecology, and where you can go in Syracuse to see an outstanding and caring gynecologist.
What Should I Know About My Gynecology Appointment?
Before your next visit to your gynecologist, keep in mind these 10 key points:
1. There’s no reason to be self-conscious. Your gynecologist’s job is to medically analyze the private areas of women all day every day. As such, the OB/GYN will have a strictly clinical approach.
2. Appearances don’t matter. Whether you choose to groom your pubic area or not, or if you forgot to shave your legs and your armpits before the appointment, your gynecologist couldn’t care less. Their focus is purely on your health and well-being. They won’t even notice.
3. Hygiene does matter. Do make sure you are clean for your examination. External use of mild soap in the shower will do.
Don’t use so-called “feminine hygiene solutions.” Douches, for example, are associated with higher rates of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and are therefore discouraged by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Likewise, feminine deodorant sprays can cause irritation by creating an imbalance in vaginal chemistry that can result in bacterial or yeast overgrowth.
4. Don’t rely on everything you read about women’s sexual health on the internet. It won’t make you an expert on gynecology. Trust your gynecologist for the most accurate information and advice.
5. Your OB/GYN’s job isn’t as simple as it may seem. Often, there is more to remedying a health problem than just writing a prescription or recommending surgery. In addition to assessing the health of your reproductive organs, your gynecologist takes a whole-body approach – including your emotional and physical well-being. After all, many women consider their OB/GYN to essentially be their general practitioner, so these doctors keep an eye out for other issues as much as possible.
6. Never skip an annual gynecologist appointment just because you’re having your period. If you are having your period and you are scheduled to have an appointment that day or within the next few days, call the OB/GYN’s office right away and reschedule your appointment. They will gladly oblige, unless you are having a bleeding issue and you need the doctor to provide an evaluation of your bleeding condition.
7. Consult your gynecologist before using any new menstrual products. These aids – such as reusable pads, tampons, and menstrual cups – can cause major health issues and infections if you use them improperly. Some of these newfangled tools shouldn’t be used at all, and your OB/GYN will let you know either way. Just be sure to ask. If you’re between appointments, call the doctor’s office and leave a message for your gynecologist, and the staff should get back to you with an answer later in the day.
8. Don’t multitask during a gynecological exam. Gynecologists report that some patients do awkward and distracting things during a pelvic exam, such as texting, making phone calls, etc. Your visit will be over in a matter of minutes – so be considerate, as well as mindful of your priorities, by concentrating on the time spent with your doctor.
9. A brief exam doesn’t mean your OB/GYN is rushed or shoddy. If you are healthy, the examination process should only take a matter of minutes. Keep in mind that this is very different from an annual physical exam conducted by your general practitioner, which is much more comprehensive and takes longer.
10. Your gynecologist provides a wider range of medical services than you may realize. OB/GYN healthcare is not just about pelvic exams, Pap smears, and prescribing birth control. Gynecologists are trained and experienced in performing surgeries, such as C-sections and hysterectomies. It may be to your benefit to learn more about all the services your OB/GYN has to offer.
Reproductive and Sexual Health Services in Syracuse, New York
At University OB/GYN Associates, our staff of skilled medical professionals is committed to helping you maintain your reproductive and sexual health – as well as your overall health. To achieve that goal, we offer the most up-to-date and appropriate medical services at every stage of your life, including advanced treatments in all facets of gynecology.
For more information about our many OB/GYN services, call us today at (315) 464-5162 to schedule an appointment. We look forward to being your healthcare partner!
