Re: What to the expect at the GYNO?
From: Robin (anonymous@obgyn.net)
Thu, 21 Jun 2001 12:19:23 -0500 (CDT)
I'd like to add to this. The speculum does not open the cervix, it
opens the vagina so the Dr. can do the pap.
Dilating the cervix requires very small instruments. The speculum does
not do this.
--
Robin
At Wed, 20 Jun 2001, Julie wrote:
>
>It is so important for all women over 18, especially those who are
>sexually active, to see a GYN each year. A pap smear can pick up the
>tiniest abnormalities in your cervix that you would never know about
>otherwise.
>
>The exams are not bad at all. The nurse will do the usual blood
>pressure, weight, etc. and then the Dr. will examine your breasts for
>any lumps usually both lying down and sitting up. Then he/she will
>place a speculum (a metal or plastic instrument) into your vagina. This
>shouldn't hurt you at all since you are already sexually active. The
>metal ones can be a little cold. They open the speculum up to open your
>cervix and then take a small cotton swab and take a sample of your
>cervical cells. The Dr. will often place a inger or two into your
>vagina also and feel your ovaries from the inside and some Dr.'s also
>perform a rectal exam.
>
>That's about it. You should try to go when you're between periods and
>you should abstain from intercourse for about 48 hours before the exam.
>Other than that, just take any questions you have and don't be afraid to
>ask the Dr. what they are doing during the exam.
>
>Hope this helps!
>
>At Wed, 20 Jun 2001, Kate wrote:
>>
>>I am 21 years old and have been sexually active for about 2 years, but
>>have never been to the gynocologist. I have never been on the pill or
>>had any major irreglarities in my period. I am kind of freaked out
>>about going and I guess that is why I never have. Everything about my
>>body seems normal, but from what I understand I need to go anyways. I
>>am absolutely ignorant about what goes on during an exam. Is there
>>anything I need to do to prepare myself and what should I expect from
>>start to finish.
>>
>>--
>>Kate
>>
--
~Robin~
I'm not a Dr. or any type of Medical Professional. The information I share is based on what I have experienced personally or what I have learned. PLEASE, NO PRIVATE EMAILS!