Going to the gynae can be a stressful experience; whether you’re a first-time visitor or you’re a seasoned veteran of being poked and prodded by a complete stranger; none of us would choose this as our fave day out!
But, having said that, Dr Shiva Harikrishnan, a Gynaecologist at Medcare Women & Children Hospital reminds us that, ‘I’ve seen it all! I can absolutely understand why women would feel anxious about visiting their gynaecologists, but they need to keep in mind that this is just another day at the office for me and for all my fellow gynaecologists around the world. Nothing surprises or concerns me anymore and the best thing you can do for both you and I, is relax and keep the following in mind to help make your gynae appointment slightly more bearable.’
1. Doctors aren’t hairstylists…. Or beauty queen judges!
This means that they don’t care about your personal grooming. Haven’t shaved your bits or your legs? That’s not what they’re looking at. Many women have claimed they feel self-conscious or even plan their waxes around their appointments to avoid embarrassment. This is definitely something to scratch off your worry list and get you one step closer to a more calm and stress free gynae visit.
2. On your menstrual cycle? Don’t cancel your appointment.
Yup, that’s right, you can actually go visit your gynaecologist whilst on your menstrual cycle. You may be worried about any, um, awkward mess, but believe me, your doctor has seen a lot worse! Doctors have noted that they’re still able to get a pretty good sample during the Pap Smear and never feel put off by your cycle. It can already be difficult to get an appointment with a great gynaecologist, so please don’t cancel due to an unexpected visitor. If you’re very concerned, try giving your doctor’s room a call and informing them of the situation and they’ll be happy to offer guidance.
3. Using too many feminine hygiene products.
Want your “ladybits” to smell like a summer bouquet? No, you don’t! Your lady parts have worked very hard to maintain a highly sensitive and complex balance of pH and good bacteria. Scented feminine hygiene deodorants can interfere with this chemistry and even cause irritation or allergic reactions. Regular douching, as in, not for a specific medical reason, can also disrupt a happy environment and cause overgrowth of yeast and bacteria. So, from now on, let your lady parts look after herself and for any severe symptoms, seek medical advice before choosing the course of treatment.
4. Putting up with terrible PMS symptoms
Dealing with the usual cramps and bloating is one thing but, as with relationships, on-going suffering is not ok! You know what your body is telling you and you should not feel like you’re being dramatic to address these with your gynae. Severe headaches, cramps that have you doubled over, out of control mood swings or an extremely heavy flow are all things that you need talk about. Although your menstrual cycle is a natural occurrence, this does not mean that you cannot get some help to deal with it – speak up!
5. Not sharing it all…
Nothing and I mean NOTHING is TMI for gynaecologists. They need to know everything: from that burning feeling, to the funky smell. All of this is vital information to assist them with treating you in the best way possible. Gynaes are doctors after all, they’re there to help you and the same way you’d tell your GP about every pain and possible symptom, you need to do the same when it comes to your health.