Menu

OBGYN: Careful and Personalized Care


Preparation For Pelvic Exams

If you have an appointment scheduled with your OB/GYN, you may want to start mentally preparing yourself for a pelvic exam. A women's pelvic exam can sometimes be an uncomfortable thing. Not only does it feel awkward (depending on your feelings on the matter), it can also be a little painful. For many women, focusing on why it needs to be done can make it worth it. There are many reasons why your doctor may feel that you need a pelvic exam. Fortunately, there are also ways to prepare for the exam, depending on why you need it. Here are a few reasons you may get one, and how to prepare.

A Yearly Physical

It is very likely that your doctor will perform a pelvic exam during your yearly physical. Depending on how much time has elapsed since your last physical, you may also need a pap smear. Preparation for this exam does not need to be excessive since there is not too much to stress about. Keep in mind that your doctor is making sure that you are healthy and protecting you from future health problems, and you should be fine. 

A Procedure

IUD

An IUD getting placed is often one of the first pelvic procedures that women have done. An intrauterine device is a form of birth control that is extremely effective, so many women choose to get them in while they are young. Talk to your doctor about the timing of the procedure. They may suggest you wait until a day or two before your next scheduled period so that your cervix is soft and easier to dilate. This will probably make the procedure more comfortable for you as well. 

Colposcopy

A colposcopy is a procedure where a small sample of the cervix is retrieved to get some more information after an abnormal pap smear. It can sometimes be uncomfortable. Talk to your doctor about how to prepare for this pelvic exam. They may have you come in close to your menstrual cycle and suggest that you take some Tylenol or ibuprofen before you come. 

Ablation

An ablation is a medical procedure that can be done under general anesthesia in a hospital. Some tough ladies choose to get it done in-office, since it is quite a bit cheaper. Before this pelvic exam and procedure, your doctor may prescribe some pain medication or maybe even something to help you remain calm during your procedure. If this is the case, you will likely need someone to drive you home afterward. 

In conclusion, talk to your doctor about your feelings on the topic of pelvic exams. Many will be understanding of your fears, and offer to help you feel as comfortable as possible. Contact a clinic like Naples  Ob-Gyn for more information.

About Me

OBGYN: Careful and Personalized Care

Visiting the OBGYN may not be your favorite thing, but it is vital if you want to protect your health as a woman. OBGYNs conduct pap smears, pelvic exams, and other procedures to monitor your reproductive health and ensure problems do not go unnoticed. They also prescribe birth control, monitor you throughout pregnancy, and deliver babies. Would you like to learn more about the fields of obstetrics and gynecology, and gain a better appreciation for what these doctors do for you? Check out the educational articles on this website, which we've compiled to help make you a more informed patient.

Categories

Latest Posts

Mastering the Art of Weight Management Treatment
17 January 2024

Weight management is a long-term approach to a hea

Postpartum Journey: How Doula Services Elevate the Healing Process
11 December 2023

Welcoming a new addition to the family is a joyous

Managing Your Weight With PCOS
11 July 2023

Polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS, is a disorder

Gynecological Services Women Often Need
1 February 2023

Gynecological services are an essential part of a

What To Expect At Your Anatomy Scan Ultrasound
17 August 2022

During your first pregnancy, your doctor will orde