Time to visit the gynecologist? Eek. Your thoughts are probably racing over a million different pros and cons. Let me map out a couple for you:

Cons:

• The fear: No matter the reasons for your trip to the gynecologist, they’re usually surrounded by some measure of fear. Whether you fear for the worst, or have no idea what to expect, it’s usually quite the nerve-wracking time. Even when it’s just your annual checkup, it’s hard to shake that anxiety.
• Grooming concerns: How does one prepare to go to the gyno? Should I shave? Should I wear fancy perfume? I personally try not to shave right before to avoid ingrown hairs and the like. Presenting yourself as “well-groomed” is probably the safest option, but it’s hard to know when you feel like you’re being judged (and certainly analyzed) by a stranger.
• The awkward questions: To me, this is the worst part about visiting the lady-doctor. Hearing questions like “Is it possible you have an STD?” all the way to questions involving you and your family’s sexual history is enough to make any girl blush. And you have to actually be honest when answering these questions. Ugh.
• The dreaded speculum: Maybe this is the worst part. It’s cold. It’s foreign. It’s the bane of every gynecologist visit, the point from which you can only go up in a given day. Small talk during the pap smear is an option, but extremely difficult—I do not recommend it. [Ed: True story: I have investigated my own cervix with a speculum, a mirror, and a flashlight, for recreation. Take femsex, y'all.]

Pros:

• Creating a good habit: With all the other choices you may be making in your life, you can rest assured that visiting your gyno is a good one. You should be paying him/her a visit at least once a year, and any time you seriously feel the need to.
• Awesome doctors: Gynecologists are (usually) great at their job. They’re experienced at helping you feel comfortable in an uncomfortable environment, and many of them are great at making you laugh. If you do not have this experience when visiting your doctor, get a new doctor. You should be able to feel as safe and relaxed as possible with your gyno; a great doctor can make all the difference to your visit.
• Lots of questions answered: Beyond the normal girly questions you may have, you can take advantage of this time with a family doctor or general physician by getting other physical tests done, too. Check your blood pressure, urine, weight, etc. while you’re there. Many girls opt to schedule their yearly physical at the same time. I know I do!
• Peace of mind: Ultimately, every time you leave the gyno’s office unscathed, you’re able to breathe a sigh of relief. You have important knowledge you didn’t have before, and you’ve done your duty to your health. You can go about your life now with the peace of mind that you are healthy. Plus, it wasn’t really that bad after all, was it?

Victoria Ramos studied business and now blogs about developments in the field, as well as her other interests. She loves shopping, socializing, hosting parties, decorating, and writing. For more information on women’s medical research in Cleveland, OH, visit Rapid Medical Research’s website. Get informed, girl!

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