What Can I Expect At My First Gynecologist Appointment?

Do you have a vagina?

Have you had it checked out by a professional?

If not, then the time has come for you to book an appointment with your family doctor or an obstetrician-gynecologist (OB/GYN): a doctor who specializes in female reproductive health!

The thought of a gynecological appointment may seem daunting at first, but you can combat pre-exam nerves if you know what to expect!

The first gynecological visit may be just a talk between you and your doctor!

Expect to answer questions about:

• your menstrual period

• the start date of your last period

• your sexual activities (including vaginal, oral, or anal sex)

During your visit, a medical professional (not necessarily your doctor) will check and measure your:

• Height

• Weight

• Blood pressure

You will also be examined for any health problems you may have.

A breast exam may be performed during your appointment to detect lumps, cysts, or breast problems.

Although teenagers and young adults have a low breast-cancer risk, this is an opportunity for your doctor to show you how to examine your breasts and identify any changes.

A typical pelvic exam has three parts and will take around 3-5 minutes of your visit!

It will be done if you:

• are 21 years of age or older

• are sexually active

• want STI testing

• have health concerns (i.e. painful periods, abnormal bleeding)

You will be asked to put your feet in the footrests/stirrups and your doctor will look at the vulva (external genitalia). 

This is to make sure there are no sores, swelling, or any other problems.

This is a good opportunity to learn about your body and the names for each part - if you don’t know them already!

Using a lubricated speculum, your doctor will look at the vagina and cervix and check for anything unusual.

They will conduct a Pap test/smear to screen for cervical cancer, as well as test for STIs (if applicable).

For the Pap test, a sample of cells will be taken from your cervix using a tiny soft brush or spatula, and then they will be checked for abnormal changes.

Your doctor will check your internal pelvic organs for any swelling or growths.

They will put one or two gloved, lubricated fingers into the vagina and up to the cervix.

Their other hand presses on the abdomen from the outside.

Sexual and reproductive health visits are necessary and important for maintaining overall health, so book your first gynecological appointment today!

Some actions to consider beforehand: