While these questions seem invasive, it’s all in the name of providing top care to women.
But, it seems only fair that patients get to fire questions at me sometimes.
Here, I’ve compiled a list of the most common questions I receive as a gynecologist.
Do you really get your well appointments done, too?
If you have to do it, then I have to do it.
I’m not all talk and no action!
So every March, I book my well woman, mammogram, etc.
so that I can keep track of when I’ve done my last one.
Think of it as a day of health that keeps giving back to you all year!
What’s the weirdest thing you’ve ever removed from someone?
I have removed retained tampons (once I removed two!
), pieces of condoms, even a part of a vibrator from someone’s vagina.
Why do I even entertain this question?
It’s not to gross anyone out!
How often do I need to see you?
This a great question, and one that is confusing!
But what we do each year may vary.
In women 21-39, the Congress recommends an exam every 1-3 years.
Do you care what I look like down there?
Good gracious, no!
I’m not just saying that, either.
If you choose to go “natural”, doctors don’t care!
Stop apologizing, ladies!
like don’t ever delay an exam because you feel you’re not primped enough.
You are owning your healthcare!
What are you going to do to me at my annual appointment (yikes!)?
(I have an ongoing disagreement about this point with my friend, who’s a dentist).
Labwork is also fairly standard to check for thyroid disorders, cholesterol and overall general health.
What are you thinking about during my exam?
I’m generally going through my head about what kind of labs and exams you need at your age.
Do you have any additional risk factors based on your family history, such as breast or ovarian cancer?
What kind of birth control might you want to discuss and which would be appropriate options for you?
Does that ovary feel normal, or enlarged?
I must ascertain your entire health status and do it quickly.
I am focused solely on you!
What should I ask you during a well woman exam?
I love focused questions.
I promise we can at least start the conversation.
Birth control, HPV vaccine, pre-pregnancy concerns, lab work these are all fair questions.
I applaud her for having the guts to bring it up.
And then let’s start the healing!
How do I know what birth control is best for me?
Objectively, birth control is one of the most revolutionary advances in medicine.
Twenty years ago, we had only a few choices for birth control.
Today, there are literally hundreds of different kinds of birth control pills.
Injections, patches and implants round out your choices as well.
Do you want hormones?
I always say that pregnancy is the cutest sexually transmitted disease!
Do your research, ask friends what they use.
Check what is covered by your insurance.
And if you don’t like what you picked, together we can pick something else.
How can I get the most out of my time with you?
Show up 15 minutes early, fill out any required paperwork and have your appointment visualized in your mind.
Always bring your identification and insurance card, if you have one.
Be prepared to leave a urine specimen.
Have your pharmacy information ready and always know your last menstrual period.
What items do you want to discuss?
I may also need to prepare separate labs or book another appointment to discuss more issues.
Go with the flow and the appointment will be over before you know it.
Why do you do what you do?
This question is usually followed by the requisite: how can you look at vajayjay all day long?
Obstetriciangynecologists have a long tradition of providing preventive care to women.
Why do gynos want to be asked this question?
For one, I am a woman, and I get these exams, too.
I understand what it’s like feeling naked and vulnerable at an appointment.
Secondly, I enjoy providing preventive care to women.
I take care of girls at the start of their womanhood all the way to the more mature years.
Women are complex and dynamic and I love taking care of them.
Yes, I do see a lot of vaginas.
It’s an honor to see women every year and catch up like old friends.
No judgment here!
I don’t believe in judging women for not having kept up with their healthcare.
I do emphasize it’s importance, though, and it’s never to late to start!
Taking control of your health is crucial.
And yo, ask your gyno questions no matter how embarrassing.
He or she is happy to oblige!
