Doctor’s appointments can always be awkward or be a cause for nervousness. Your first OB/GYN doctor or even a completely new doctor can make appointments with general topics sensitive. Nevermind the topics that could be hard to discuss. Even though seeing an OB/GYN is a crucial part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, preparing yourself to get the most out of these appointments can make an uncomfortable task more comfortable. 

Whether you’re young, trying to get pregnant or experiencing menopause, asking all sorts of questions can become a lot easier with practice and with a doctor that makes you feel at ease. 

It’s good to get in the habit of speaking up about your health. Even when it’s uncomfortable, or scary. 

For your doctor, it’s more than likely nothing they haven’t heard before. 

Preparing for your gynecologist visit and having a list of questions can help you make the most out of your appointments. 

If it’s your first appointment, you might have a reason for your visit, or maybe you’re not sure what to ask during a generic check-up?

Normally, your doctor will lead the way and ask you a few questions during your exam. Just to get to know you and your medical history / any major concerns. They will want to know when your last period started and ended. So take note! 

They may also ask you about your sexual history, health and personal views. It’s important to be open, honest and up-front with your doctor. It gives them the best advantage when it comes to helping you when they have all the correct information. 

They’re not there to judge… but to help. 

It’s a good thing to remember. 

Most women start their gynecological care visits when they get their period or between the ages of 13 and 15. Being nervous before the first visit is extremely normal and talking to close friends or family members you trust can help put you at ease. Even discussing your unease with the OB/GYN can help them make you feel more comfortable. 

During your visit, it is normal for your OB/GYN clinic to allow a nurse or family member of choice join you during your exams. Throughout your first appointment, it is common that your doctor will perform a general physical and an external genital exam. 

For the physical exam you will be examined for physical health such as your height, weight, blood pressure, etc. to detect any unusual health problems you may currently have.

For the external genetial exam, your doctor will examine your vulva for any abnormalities and the general health of your genitals. 

At later ages, a pelvic exam and a pap test may be scheduled to check for abnormal changes.

A pap test may be used to change for abnormalities in the cervix.

A pelvic exam checks the vulva, the vagina, and cervix, as well as the internal organs. A sample of your cells may be collected with a small brush to check for changes in the cell production / type. The internal organs will be checked by placing two fingers into the vagina up the cervix while the other hand presses on the abdomen from the outside. 

Not sure what else to do? Or how to take full advantage of the appointment?

Here are the top 5 questions to ask your OB/GYN when you go in for your appointment. 

1. What specific concerns can be discussed with your OB/GYN?

If you’re making an appointment with a specific reason in mind, make sure to discuss this with your doctor. These issues can range from generic questions to serious inquiries. Maybe your period flow is heavy, you’re experiencing unusual discharge, or sex is painful. Whatever it may be, explaining to the doctor what you’re experiencing and feeling through these changes can help be able to put their knowledge to use and aid your health.

Many women share the same health concerns:

• Acne
• Weight 
• Emotional ups and downs
• STIs
• Sex
• Menstrual issues
• Birth control
• Alcohol and drugs

2. What kind of exams do I need?

In addition to regular screenings. Pelvic exams, mammograms, and whatever other health concerns you may or may not have. Asking your doctor what you might need is a great way to open the conversation to having a more personalized care routine. All women’s health history varies and what your OB/GYN may recommend will be based on all total factors. 

3. If I need exams, can I get them done here?

For a lot of OB/GYN offices, laboratory tests like urine, blood, and screening tests can be done at your OB/GYN’s clinic. Asking your doctor if making an appointment for a screening can be done at the clinic or if a separate appointment is needed for a different location is necessary. 

4. How often should I come see you?

Considering every woman’s health and health history is different, seeing your OB/GYN more than once a year may be necessary. Look ahead at future appointments and set goals. Managing your health and the topics you’ll cover with not just a doctor but a partner can be a lot easier and less scary. 

5. What can I do to stay healthy?

Based on your current examinations and medical history. Your OB/GYN can give you advice on how to maintain a personalized healthy lifestyle. As for the common concerns a woman may have. Your OB/GYN may touch base on a few basic suggestions to keep you healthy for your later years. 

• Use birth control to avoid pregnancy while sexually active
• Keep your exams, tests, and immunizations routine and up to date
• Seek help for emotional support
• Avoid drinking, smoking, and illegal drugs
• Use a condom to protect yourself from STIs and be vigilant with your partners
• Maintain a healthy weight by eating a balanced diet and exercising often

Taking charge of your visits can help you make the most out of the knowledge your healthcare provider provides. Being informed can also help alleviate the awkwardness and make what’s normally an uncomfortable but normal feeling, feel more normal. And last, choosing an OB/GYN doctor that you can partner with over the span of a long period of time, is the most important step in maintaining a healthy routine. 

For Your OB/GYN Appointment Call Rosh Maternal & Fetal Medicine in New York

At Rosh Maternal & Fetal Medicine, the team specializes in women’s wellness and provides expert diagnosis and treatment of all reproductive health issues no matter how routine or complex. They welcome women of all ages, so if you have any questions or it’s time to schedule an exam with an OB/GYN, talk to our team by phone or book an appointment online to get started. Call one of our six convenient NYC locations or schedule a video consultation online today. Come visit your NYC Maternal and Fetal Medicine Specialists for the safest possible care for you.