First gynecological visit: Prioritize comfort. Bring a list of concerns or symptoms you’re experiencing. Understand Pap smear, HPV testing, and STD screening processes. Ask about menstrual cycle health, birth control options, and fertility advice. Inquire about cervical cancer, safe sex practices, and regular health checkups. Establish communication with your gynecologist to build trust and ensure clarity on follow-up appointments.
Sample questions:
1. What does a Pap smear involve, and how often should it be done?
2. Can you explain the HPV vaccine and its benefits?
3. What are the common STDs we should be tested for, and how are they detected?
4. How can we track and improve menstrual health?
5. What birth control methods are available, and how do I choose one that suits me best?
6. When discussing fertility, what factors will you evaluate during our checkup?
7. How frequently should I schedule general gynecological checkups?
8. What are the signs of cervical cancer I should look out for?
9. Can you offer guidance on maintaining overall sexual and reproductive health?
10. Who should I contact or visit if I notice unusual changes in my body or have concerns between appointments?
What is the right time?
I could answer this simple question with an equally simple and obvious answer, namely, “at the time when there is some problem.” But this is actually not the case, because the first gynecological visit is a important moment, a moment that marks in some way the transition through a different phase of life, the moment when one begins to take personal care of one’s physical and sexual well-being; for this I don’t think you have to wait until there is a problem to go to the gynecologist, but rather I think it is important to establish a trusting relationship early on with a professional figure who can support the woman through the various stages of life.
It often happens that it is mothers who propose and sometimes accompany their daughters to the first gynecological visit; certainly this is a good sign of openness, but it is also important that each girl tunes in to her own needs and be given the opportunity to access information clear and correct, given in a simple way with clear and understandable language. So the right time is when one feels the need to have a personal space where to address topics such as the menstrual cycle with its possible irregularities, contraception, sexuality, but also seemingly lighter topics such as intimate hygiene, protection during menstruation, and any curiosity that may arise.
Clearly if there is a problem, the gynecological visit becomes a necessity not to be postponed, but let us keep in mind that the gynecological visit is also a’prevention habit and not just treatment. Reconstructing the path to get to visit here are a few small suggestions.
What to do before and during the visit
Precisely because during the gynecological examination it is possible to deal with very intimate and sensitive issues such as sexuality and contraception, it is important that a special bond is created with the gynecologist, so the choice of professional to rely on is important.
Some times mothers propose to their daughters their own gynecologist and this is an important aspect because it describes just the bond and trust that I was talking about; for a young girl it is important to ask whether this might represent a source of discomfort. If you think you are not free to speak clearly and directly, the better to ask to be able to go to another professional, perhaps having your mother or a friend help you with your choice.
Another important step is to check the date of the menstrual cycle to avoid going with your period: this is an important aspect to consider, especially the first time because it can increase embarrassment.
Other important information to know is that there are territorial services such as counseling centers, public and free facilities, where there is often a space dedicated specifically to the very young. Also if you decide to go accompanied by your mom, agree with her whether to go in alone, together or possibly at what time to ask for more privacy.
Before the visit, clarify your ideas with respect to what you want; it may happen that you feel confused in some circumstances, better to jot down the important things. Look at yourself with a mirror to see your external genitalia and Let yourself be intrigued by what you see. to ask any questions about anatomy during the visit. If you go alone, ask your family members about their health status and your health history in case you are not aware of it.
During the appointment, ask how you can facilitate the visit, for example through the breathing and relaxing the pelvic muscles. When you don’t understand, don’t be afraid to ask for further explanation.
What questions to ask
Below is a series of questions that you can ask your gynecologist or gynecologist during your first visit.
Anatomy
- Are my genitals normal?
- Where is the hymen located?
If you feel up to it, ask to possibly watch with a mirror while he explains.
Menstrual cycle
- What is it?
- How long does it have to last?
- Is it normal to have pain during menstruation?
- Is my menstrual cycle regular or irregular?
- I have acne and oily skin, can it depend on the cycle, what can I possibly do to improve these aspects?
- I have never had intercourse: can I use tampons?
- Are there any specific intimate hygiene products for my age group?
- Can I play sports during my menstrual cycle?
Contraception
- What contraceptive can I use at my age?
- How safe is it?
- Which of these do you need a prescription for?
Sexuality
- I have never had intercourse, will it hurt?
- How can I prepare for the first time?
- What are sexually transmitted diseases and how can I protect myself?
These are just some of the questions you can ask. Remember:
- there is no such thing as a stupid question;
- if you are embarrassed or need more time let us know;
- you can ask for a consultation with a gynecologist even if you have not already had your first sexual intercourse, to clarify your ideas;
- allow yourself to be intrigued by your body, which is sure to inspire questions and curiosity.
