Our adolescent years can be turbulant and confusing, to say the least. We at Clinic Sofia provide a safe, comfortable environment where young women can feel at home. Our goal is to encourage, educate and empower young women to lead a healthy lifestyle, as well as to listen without judgement to any questions and concerns they might have.
Debbie, RN, Kristi, RN, and Kim, RN give the following advice to many daughters and mothers as they contemplate the first gynecological exam. Some of the most frequently expressed concerns follow.
What are the most common fears of a young women?
Perhaps the number one reason girls are afraid is because it is embarrassing or they expect the exam might be painful. It can be very scary talking about such private things. The fear is also fueled by the unknown. The more young women know about their bodies and themselves, the easier it is.
What can the young women expect?
When the patients come into the office, they are greeted by the front desk and asked to complete a health history form and to give a reason for their appointment. Before the actual exam the weight, blood pressure, and height are taken. They are escorted to an exam room where they meet the physician and are able to ask questions about their general health. Many sexually active women want to know about birth control, protection from STD's (sexually transmitted diseases) and the actual pelvic exam.
How can the young women prepare for their exams?
Talking to your mother or reliable friends who have been through the exam can make it much easier. Going to the internet isn't always the best because one can receive misinformation or information taken out of context - that might cause more anxiety.
Are the visits to the gynecologist confidential?
The visit is absolutely confidential. When patients fill out their health history forms, there is a question asking if we can discuss their health care with any other individuals. If "NO" is marked, we will not discuss the health history or exam with anyone. There is a federal law, HIPPA, which protects the privacy of all patients. The thing to remember is that if patients are covered under their parent's insurance, we cannot control the information on the insurance claim form.
What is the PAP smear?
Patients who are sexually active are encouraged to have a pap smear as part of the examination. This simple test screens women for cervical cancer. The physician swabs cells from the cervix which sits at the top of the vagina. First a warmed instrument called a speculum is inserted into the vagina so that the cervix can be seen. Speculums are fitted to the patient for comfort and ease. The provider will talk the patient through the entire exam.
Why do most women have gynecology exams?
The number one reason young women go to a gynecologist is for birth control. The second one is for painful or irregular periods. The third reason is for STD screening. Annual exams are recommended for sexually active women or just before they go to college. It's important to remember that just because you are having a pap smear, it doesn't mean you will be screened for STD's. You need to specifically request that.
How do gynecologists differ from internists or family physicians?
While all physicians go to medical school, the gynecologist is specifically trained in women's health. Internists and family physicians are specifically trained in the general health of men, women, and children.
