Your first visit to a gynecologist can be very stressful, not going to lie, especially if you heard some stories about it from your friends or read confession stories online.

If you’re very nervous about booking your appointment, it’s important to know that, in reality, this important event in your life is much less traumatic. This text is here to help you know exactly what to expect and how to prepare for your first visit to a gynecologist. 

When is the right time to visit a gynecologist? 

Most doctors recommend girls book their first appointment between the ages of 13 and 17. In case you’re becoming sexually active or noticing any issues with your menstrual cycle or pain in your pelvis, it’s crucial to see a doctor. 

What will happen when I get there? 

When you arrive, you might receive a form containing your general information. No matter how old you are, your first visit to a gyno will include a general physical exam.

This is nothing to be scared of—it simply involves measuring your weight, height, and blood pressure so that the gynecologist can have a clear overview of your health. Much information that doctors need from teens can be received from a urine sample. 

How to battle anxiety? 

The biggest fear of many girls during their first gyno appointment is the feeling of exposure and shame. You might feel a bit awkward at first, especially if you’re worried about your physical look, your pubic hair, or the shape of your labia. Trust us when we say that gynecologists don’t care about that at all—they just want to evaluate your physical condition and ensure your reproductive health.

It’s important to find experienced doctors so you can build a long-lasting relationship with them. For instance, if you’re looking for a respected gynecologist in Doral, Florida, you can find offices with 50+ years of experience, excellent and friendly doctors, and professional and caring staff.

After a few visits to your gynecologist, your fear and anxiety will completely disappear, especially if you practice honesty with your health specialist.

Your first exam

If you’re not yet sexually active, your doctor won’t perform a pelvic exam (AKA look “inside” with tools and ultrasound rods). They might perform an external exam, look at the area around your vagina, and check your abdomen for irregularities. Some doctors will offer a mirror so you can follow what they are doing, teaching you all about your reproductive health and explaining different parts of your anatomy.

If you’re sexually active or have painful periods or unexpected bleeding, you can expect a pelvic exam. Your doctor will look inside your vagina with special tools and perform a Pap test. This part can be a bit uncomfortable, but it’s the best way to test for abnormalities and nothing to stress about. At any point, you can ask questions and take the time to collect. 

Can I get birth control? 

If you’re sexually active or want to start practicing sex in the future, you might be wondering how to approach the subject of birth control. Practicing safe sex is a part of a healthy lifestyle. In many cases, you don’t need a pelvic exam to receive prescription birth control because your doctor can make a decision based on your medical history, lifestyle, and future plans.

Expect to hear various questions about your behavior and preferences, which will ensure you get prescribed the best form of birth control for your needs. For instance, if you’re not very good at remembering things, your doctor might write off pills and recommend other methods like IUDs or implants. Many young women receive their prescription birth control after their first gynecologic visit.

Before you go home

Your doctor might also perform a light breast exam before you’re free to go. While young women have a very low risk of breast cancer, this is a great opportunity for you to learn how to examine your breasts regularly and what kind of changes to look for. In addition, use this time to ask any questions you might have about reproductive health and sexual activity—gynecologists have heard it all before, so don’t be embarrassed, to be honest about your inquiries. 

After your first visit, your doctor will also advise you on your recommended gyno schedule for the future and inform you about follow-up calls about your results (if you had STD and Pap tests done). Regular visits are the best way to prevent problems and ensure you have healthy organs and a pleasurable future. Good luck!