Jul 29, 2015 5 min read

Q.I want to have a gyne exam, but I’m scared. I live with my dad, and he said to talk with you about it because he doesn’t want to deal with it. Will it hurt? Where can I go in Washington if I don’t have a family doctor? Can I get a checkup for STDs, too? I really want to go. Thanks.

16-year-old

Mary Jo’s response: A first gyne exam can be awkward, but is necessary. I think it’s important to deal with our fears about seeking health care. Too often, people avoid checkups. When I was a child, I was afraid of the dentist. My mom encouraged me, accompanied me and made me feel safe. I discovered my fears were much worse than what actually happened.

If you want someone to go with you for the exam, consider asking a relative. It sounds as if your dad cares about you but is uncomfortable. Do you have an aunt, grandma or other family member you can trust? First experiences can be easier if you have support.

There are some excellent online resources for a young person’s first visit to a gynecologist. ACOG (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists) created a fact sheet just for teens (http://www.acog.org/-/media/For-Patients/faq150.pdf?dmc=1&ts=20150729T0544049212). They recommend a first visit between ages 13 to 15. Other health-care providers recommend a gyne exam within three years of your first sex, or at age 21, whichever comes first. It sounds as if you’re interested in an exam now.

ACOG suggests scheduling a first visit just to talk about things like menstrual cycles with the doctor or nurse practitioner. A physical exam may be part of the first visit, as well. Be prepared to share when your periods happen, how you feel during them and if you have any problems with them.

Another excellent resource comes from one of my favorite websites, Scarleteen. Check out this link, http://www.scarleteen.com/article/bodies/your_first_gynecologist_visit, for details.

Don’t hesitate to share your fear at your visit. Simply stating, “I feel nervous” and “This is my first exam” can open the door to conversation. Your provider will know you’re anxious and explain all procedures.

Here is what typically happens at a gynecologist exam:

• Medical history and family history are obtained (You will answer questions).

• Questions may be asked about your sexual experiences (Please be honest with your health-care provider. Confidentiality means your visit is private).

• Height and weight are measured and recorded (No big deal).

• Blood pressure is checked (This sounds easy, right?).

• Your provider may listen to your heart and lungs with a stethoscope (You’ve probably experienced this before).

• A breast exam is usually done (This involves touching your breasts. Some providers will teach you how to do self-breast exams).

• An abdominal exam is often done (Just some touching on your abdomen).

• An examination of your genitals (you may think of them as private body parts) is common. This is often called a pelvic exam. This experience is a chance for you to learn about your body. Your provider will examine your outside (the vulva) and inside (the vagina). The inside exam is done using a speculum (an instrument that holds the vaginal walls apart). This is the weirdest part of the exam. Try to relax – breath slowly in and out – and remember to tell your health-care provider that this is your first exam BEFORE it begins. The ACOG fact sheet shows pictures of an exam, discusses the correct names for body parts and explains exactly how a genital exam is done.

• A pap test (often called a pap smear) will probably be done to examine the cervix (the opening of your uterus). This is important to check for abnormal cell growth that may be caused by HPV (human papillomavirus). Some strains of HPV can cause cervical cancer. Your provider may recommend you take the HPV vaccine. It’s most effective if taken before having sex.

The pelvic exam may feel awkward, and some people describe a little cramping when the pap smear is done, but the exam shouldn’t hurt. If you feel uncomfortable, tell your provider right away.

If you’re sexually involved, tests for STIs (sexually transmitted infections) can be done at your visit. Trusting your provider is important.

You can call Adagio Health at 724-228-7113 to schedule an exam. This also may be a good time to select a personal health-care provider.

Good luck. Please continue to connect if you have any more questions.

Shout out to our Real Talk Performers, who will travel with me to Penn State next week. We will present a general session at the PSEA Department of Pupil Services Annual Workshop. Thanks to the following awesome young people: Sasha Edwards, Jacob Engel, Serena Green, Koron Harris, Toni Maurer, Kellie Mendicino, Daniel Pascoe, Angus Pinkerton, Shelby Studt, Maci Ward, Landan Weakland and Malik Wells.

Have a question? Send it to Dr. Mary Jo Podgurski’s email at podmj@healthyteens.com.