Dear BeingGirl Experts,

How do you prepare for the gynecologist? This is my first visit.

Terri

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Dear Terri,

During this visit, the doctor (or possibly a nurse practitioner or nurse midwife) will get to know you by asking questions about your health, relationships, activities, habits, and any changes in your body. This is a time for you to ask your new doctor/health care provider lots of questions, too!  He or she can talk with you about many of those private things you have been wondering about—puberty, your body, periods, acne, weight, body/facial hair, sexual activity, birth control, etc. Make a list before you go, so you don’t forget any of your important questions.

The rest of what happens during the exam will depend on how old you are, if you have any specific problems or concerns, and whether you are sexually active. Your doctor/health care provider will likely do a general physical exam and also a breast exam. You probably won’t need to have a pelvic exam (check of your internal female organs) at this first visit, unless you are having a problem or concern. Besides the doctor/health care provider, there will be a nurse or other assistant in the room during your exam. You can also choose to have someone you know come in the room, if you like. If you need more privacy, it is not necessary to have anyone else in the room. This is your choice.

Hope this is helpful,

Your BeingGirl Experts