I have to go for my first gynecologist exam today.
Well, technically it's not my first. But it will be the first one that is actually COMPLETED.
The last time I went, she couldn't even finish the pelvic exam because it hurt me so badly that I was in tears and begging her to stop.
I had to take 2mg Ativan just to get to sleep last night. I was crying uncontrollably. Then when I drove to the hospital, I burst into tears in the parking lot and had to take another. Then I started crying in the waiting room.
On top of all that, they SENT ME HOME because they're running behind and can't take my appointment until 2:30 because I'm a new patient. Oh, and they gave me flak about being unemployed and having no insurance. They told me I'd have to put down a deposit. I told them to just tell me what the full amount is, and I'll pay it right there. So when (IF, really) I go back, I'll gave that happy fun time to handle.
So now I get to stew at home and try to convince myself to show up again.
It drives me up a wall that doctors I've talked to and my mom and stuff are all, "Oh no, you're blowing this out of proportion. It's just a little uncomfortable. It doesn't HURT."
Yes! Yes, it does! It hurts a LOT!
I ordered pizza.
-pH
[ March 15, 2006, 08:47 AM: Message edited by: pH ]
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
I remember a friend of mine talking about how much a pelvic exam hurt her (before I had my first). I was terrified, and when I actually had one, I was surprised to find out that it didn't hurt at all.
Is it possible that you haven't stretched/torn your hymen yet? If you have, then I think I would talk to your gynecologist about the pain. I don't think that should be happening.
Posted by Uprooted (Member # 8353) on :
Are you going to the same doctor this time that you went to last time? I would ask around and get some recommendations. Technique definitely makes a difference--it will be more painful with some doctors than with others.
At the very least, you need a doctor (or nurse practitioner, or whoever) who understands that the more tense and upset you are, the more it hurts, and does his or her best to be calming and relaxing and help you keep your mind off it.
Hugs, pH. Enjoy the pizza. I hope this isn't too traumatic. Play soft music and do whatever is relaxing between now and then.
Posted by xnera (Member # 187) on :
I've had a bad gyne exam that hurt. >_< But most have been really good. And yeah, it really does depend on bedside manner. The one that hurt had awful bedside manner.
A good doctor will understand how hard the exam can be for some women, especially if it is their first exam. I was lucky and had a GREAT doctor for my first. She went slow, explained everything she was doing, and kept up a constant stream of conversation. That may sound uncomfortable, to be talking while you're being examined, but because I was trying to formulate responses to her questions, I completely forgot about being nervous.
I would definitely tell the doctor how nervous you are. Is there anything you think would make you feel more comfortable? At my clinc, they always have a nurse in the room, especially if it's a male doctor. Would that make you more comfortable?
Heck, one time I had to go for a pelvic ultrasound, and I asked a friend to come with. She stood outside the exam room door while it was going on. Just having her there was helpful.
I've heard that taking music in with you can help, but I think the sensitive doctor who has great bedside manners is key!
Good luck with this. Think, "it'll all be over soon"!
Posted by pH (Member # 1350) on :
My boyfriend offered to come with me, but that seems to me to be above and beyond the call of boyfriend duty.
I might pack Edgar (the teddy bear he gave me) in my backpack. I don't know what good he would do, but maybe I could squeeze him while I'm in that room alone waiting for the doctor to come in.
Also, I'm dumping my whole song collection into my mp3 player so that I can hopefully distract myself while in the waiting room.
They offered to reschedule until Friday, but honestly, if I had to wait that long, I wouldn't go. I've been trying to psych myself up for this for TODAY.
The doctor is one who was recommended by my psychiatrist/therapist. So I'm hoping she is okay. The last doctor I saw was actually pretty nice. But the whole thing was just so scary and overwhelming.
-pH
Posted by Advent 115 (Member # 8914) on :
My sister always says that her examinations were very uncomforterable. But she had to have them done more frequently so they could see over a period of 4 months wether or not she could convieve after a cyst that had been removed and was growing back.
Posted by El JT de Spang (Member # 7742) on :
Just keep your eyes on the prize.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
Mine hurt, too, but I don't think they hurt as badly as yours.
I hope it goes smoothly for you. After my first one, the rest weren't nearly as scary.
My last gyno was a new one for me, and she has her patients sit down with her in her office before the exam. It's SO nice to be able to talk to your doctor when you're fully clothed! It is MUCH less intimidating, and easier to remember to ask all the right questions.
Best of luck!
Posted by Valentine014 (Member # 5981) on :
While I wouldn't mind if my significant other is at the clinic with me, I would prefer he not be present during the exam.
I'm always so surprised on how quick the whole thing is. My nurse practitioner is great. She knows what she's doing and is knows exactly how much chitchat these exams should have. Less talking, more swabbing.
Pearce, have you tried Kegel exercises? I'm betting they can help you feel what relaxing that area should feel like.
Don't worry, it will be okay. The next one won't be nearly as bad, I promise. You'll know what to expect and be a little more prepared.
Yay for Ativan.
Posted by Valentine014 (Member # 5981) on :
Oh, cool! I even found a link.
Posted by oolung (Member # 8995) on :
Best of luck! I hope it all went well this time!
(I have to say, there's no position that I feel more stupid in than in the armchair at a gynecologist! I always hope we'll skip that bit, but nope: it's got to be done... <sigh> But at least I had the luck to come across a really great gynecologist)
Ph, I think it's veeerryy wise of you NOT to take your boyfriend there I definitely want as few people there as possible!
Posted by Shigosei (Member # 3831) on :
Good luck, pH. Be sure to let the doctor know if something is hurting you, because it really shouldn't hurt.
Posted by aspectre (Member # 2222) on :
In an age of endoscopic surgery via threading through eg blood vessels, gynecologists using speculums/etc are just folks who like to torture women.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
The armchair? Do you mean the conversation I was talking about?
Posted by Tinros (Member # 8328) on :
Ugh. I turn 18 in May. THen I get to have MY first exam. I'm REALLY not looking forward to it.
Posted by Chris Bridges (Member # 1138) on :
I've gone with Teres at times when she knew it was going to hurt, such as when she had her cervix frozen last year, and wanted someone there with her.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Pelvic exams always hurt me. Relaxed makes no difference. And even moreso during pregnancy, when I get most of them. >_< I sympathise. I find that concentrating on something else can help. But sweetie, you just gotta do it, because having a painful exam now is better than dying of something that didn't get caught because you didn't do it later.
BTW, I was much happier once I switched from a doctor who said, "It doesn't hurt! There's no reason what I'm doing should hurt" to one who said, "I'm sorry. I don't know why this hurts you, but I'm sorry it does, we're almost done."
I don't like doctors who tell me something doesn't hurt when I know it does. I am not happy when I am not listened to.
Posted by Kristen (Member # 9200) on :
They always hurt me too. It has nothing to do with relaxation--I have done yoga for years and definitely do the breathing, but I think some of us have the misfortune of being built smaller/differently. Or maybe it's the same as when people say that shots don't hurt--they DO hurt me, but it's not like agony. I guess for some people that doesn't even register as pain?
And it's so odd making small talk ("Yup, still in Chicago...it's been a good winter") when someone is THAT close to you.
Good luck! I don't envy you.
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
quote:Originally posted by aspectre: In an age of endoscopic surgery via threading through eg blood vessels, gynecologists using speculums/etc are just folks who like to torture women.
What?
What does endoscopy have to do a pelvic exam? And, are you aware of the risks associated with endoscopic surgery?
pH, I hope it went more easily for you.
Posted by pH (Member # 1350) on :
Well, I'm back, after three hours of torture.
As soon as I got into the exam room, I started crying.
The doctor handed Edgar to me (my teddy bear) and got someone else to stand next to me and talk to me and hold my hand.
But I still started absolutely sobbing once the exam started. It hurt. It hurt BAD. Bad bad bad bad.
I had to give blood to get my thyroid checked, and she also thinks I might be anemic. So yay. And I have to take some pills to stop the bleeding, and if those stop it, then I can start taking birth control. And I have to have a pelvic ultrasound and a follow-up exam.
I think they just want to prolong my torture for an entire month.
-pH
Posted by Chris Bridges (Member # 1138) on :
A careful {{{pH}}}
Posted by jeniwren (Member # 2002) on :
pH,
I wish I had something better to say. I really feel for you, though, and think you're very, very brave for going through with it even though it hurts so much for you. It's important and a lesser person would just not go. Ever. No matter how important it was. So I'm really impressed.
Posted by Synesthesia (Member # 4774) on :
I'm sorry... They said I didn't even have to get one of those for obvious reasons...
Posted by Valentine014 (Member # 5981) on :
I sorry but I don't follow. Why wouldn't you need an exam? Under what circumstances would a woman not need one? I'm pretty sure you are female, Synesthesia...
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(((hugs))) I'm sorry, pH.
Posted by Synesthesia (Member # 4774) on :
Yes, but I also am not... well *Cough* so they said my changes of having cervical cancer are nonexistent. I wish she would have told me this before I was sitting there in a paper towel feeling humiliated.
I'm sorry it hurt so much Ph...
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Syn, you should still get an exam at the very least every two years if you are a woman over 18.
Posted by Tatiana (Member # 6776) on :
I just made a policy decision not to have these any more until I get married. I decided it was my choice, so I chose to accept the tiny risk rather than go through that. It's more than unpleasant and painful, it's just really upsetting and disturbing to me. I feel violated. I don't get mammograms either.
Now obviously if it were some doctor like CT, whom I loved, it would be totally different. But I don't happen to know anyone locally like that. And I feel really liberated that I don't have to go through with that.
Obviously, if I were married I would, and certainly if I got pregnant, but then I would have a husband and probably feel less vulnerable anyway.
Posted by Synesthesia (Member # 4774) on :
She said I didn't need to have one unless.... I have had..... ^^;;;;;; So I was like *phew*
Posted by Theaca (Member # 8325) on :
quote:Originally posted by ketchupqueen: Syn, you should still get an exam at the very least every two years if you are a woman over 18.
Actually, no, they recently changed that rule to over 21. And even at 21 the risk is low enough for virgins that some doctors are more lenient than that.
Posted by The Rabbit (Member # 671) on :
I'm with Tatiana on this one. Even though I'm married I've decided simply to skip the annual pelvic exam for the last several years. I went through a series of these because of infertility problems and I just can't stand them any more. I just feel so violated by these exams.
Based on my personal and family medical history, I'm at extremely low risk for any of the things they screen for in these exams and it doesn't seem worth it to me. Unless I get pregnant or experience some clear problems, I'm simply not going to go in for a routine violation of body.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote:Actually, no, they recently changed that rule to over 18.
What?
Oh, you caught it. Posted by quidscribis (Member # 5124) on :
It's my understanding that cervical cancer does not happen to women who have never had any sexual contact. Cervical cancer is believed to be caused by HPV, the Human Papilloma Virus, which is a sexually transmitted disease. If you have not ever had sex, you cannot catch HPV and the risks of getting cervical cancer are extremely low.
Anyone who has ever had sex should start having their PAP smears, regardless of age. And by sex, it doesn't mean just penetration, but any skin to skin contact.
At least, this is what the doctors I know in Canada say.
Edited to add: In Canada, at any rate, if you've had a few smears in a row that all came back negative, you then move to every other year, then to every third year, or something like that. Except for people who are at high risk. Because of childhood sexual abuse, I'm at high risk and can never afford the risk to getting them less frequently than once a year.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
But cervical cancer isn't the only reason you go in for an exam, right?
Okay, maybe that's just me, because I always had REALLY WEIRD stuff going on with my periods and all.
Posted by The Rabbit (Member # 671) on :
The cervical cancer is the reason that doctors recommend a cervical exam for health asymptomatic women.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Okay, I was never totally asymptomatic, that would probably be it; I always had something going on.
Posted by Theaca (Member # 8325) on :
Actually, young sexually active women are going for two reasons whether they know it or not: the cervical exam, and an STD check. In active high school and college women especially, the STDs are much more likely than cervical cancer but we just incorporate all of it into the "pelvic exam".
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(I was not sexually active.)
Posted by quidscribis (Member # 5124) on :
Theaca, then it appears as though things are much different now than they were when I was a teenager. Or I just had lousy doctors.
I had to beg four different doctors before they'd test me for STDs.
Posted by jexx (Member # 3450) on :
pH, is it possible that you have a tilted uterus? My friend in high school had that, and her exams were always very painful.
I sympathize with all of you ladies with painful exams. :/ I have been very lucky so far to just be slightly humiliated.
Please, ladies, especially if you are not getting yearly exams, examine your breasts monthly for lumps. I had a great-aunt who died from breast cancer. Feel yer boobies!
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
At my clinic they do not test you for STDs unless you indicate that you want them to. They do, however, ask if you are at risk.
Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
I've only had one exam, and it was an emergency due to terrible abdominal pain. I was in the ER and it was 2 am. I don't think it hurt, though I had an IV. But it doesn't make the prospect of them any better.
Posted by Kristen (Member # 9200) on :
I don't mean to be scary, but breast cancer runs in my family on both sides. I was discussing my increased risk with my doctor and she said:
"Actually you don't have much of an increased risk. It is true that you are 10-25% more likely to get breast cancer, but the fact is that 1 out of 8 (and perhaps more) women will contact breast cancer at one point in their lives so everyone should treat it as if they have a high risk of developping it"
For that reason, and that reason alone, it is a logical and preventive measure to get a breast exam either with your gynocologist or GP, and mammograms after 25 (or 30), even if you do shun the pelvic exam.
Posted by quidscribis (Member # 5124) on :
quote:Originally posted by jexx: pH, is it possible that you have a tilted uterus? My friend in high school had that, and her exams were always very painful.
I sympathize with all of you ladies with painful exams. :/ I have been very lucky so far to just be slightly humiliated.
Please, ladies, especially if you are not getting yearly exams, examine your breasts monthly for lumps. I had a great-aunt who died from breast cancer. Feel yer boobies!
Good points, Jexx. I was just recently told that my uterus is tilted. Duh. No wonder the exams hurt.
Also, you're never too young to start breast exams. I had a friend who had her left breast lopped off at 19 due to breast cancer.
But then, I also had a friend with cervical cancer when she was still a teenager, so yeah, it all needs to be taken seriously.
Posted by sweetbaboo (Member # 8845) on :
Ewww. I thought mammograms weren't deemed necessary until after 40 (IOW I thought I had a couple more years until that necessary evil). ugh.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Mammograms aren't deemed necessary until after 40. They're talking about manual exams.
And I've been told I have a titled uterus, too, and my exams have never hurt. *shrug* So that may or may not be related. Mine is tilted enough that they have to, um, use two hands for the exam.
Posted by sweetbaboo (Member # 8845) on :
Whew! I'm glad you thought 40 as well but I was responding to this comment by Kristen:
quote:and mammograms after 25 (or 30)
Posted by Valentine014 (Member # 5981) on :
quote:At my clinic they do not test you for STDs unless you indicate that you want them to. They do, however, ask if you are at risk.
I was under the impression that is standard to do a chlamydia check with every annual...?
Posted by quidscribis (Member # 5124) on :
quote:Originally posted by ElJay: Mammograms aren't deemed necessary until after 40.
Unless you have Premature Ovarian Failure or Early Perimenopause (from what I've read, there are disputes within the medical community whether these are two separate medical diagnoses, or the same thing.)
I had my first mammogram last year - at 37. Yikes!
Talk about getting your breast squished to about half an inch thick! Ouch!
Posted by Kristen (Member # 9200) on :
Weird; my doctor, mom, gynecologist and a few other sources recommended 30 definitely, and since I do have that increased risk, 25.
*thinking*
Perhaps 40 is necessary, 30 is highly preventive? Or maybe my world consists of hypochondriacs Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Well, at my annual last month I was told that I should keep in mind that I'll have to have a baseline mammogram in 8 years when I turn 40. And when I had a suspicious lump a few years back they did an ultrasound instead of a mammogram because the doctor said at my age the breast tissue was too dense for a mammogram to work. *shrug* But I am not a medical professional.
---------
Val, I have asked to be tested for the full range of STDs before, more than once. And I always get all my test results sent to me in writing. Chlamydia has only been on the results list the times I requested full STD screenings. But it certainly could be different practices in different areas. Or they're just only sending me the results when I request them. But when I've had STD tests they've always taken a wet prep as well as the pap smear sample. When I don't request it, they only take the pap sample. Do they do the chlamydia test off of that?
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
I started my last post before I saw Kristen's and quids's that ended up before mine. If your doctor is recommending earlier, Kristen, then of course that's what you should do.
Posted by pH (Member # 1350) on :
Thanks for the support, you guys.
As for the STD testing, I'm sure that's going to be a part of the things they do with the many scrapings taken from the inside of my vagina since I've been having pain and lots of it. I was told that the anemia and thyroid results from the blood they sucked out of me will be in tomorrow.
And I don't even know what a tilted uterus is...but that would show up on a pelvic ultrasound, right? I have one of those on the 15th.
I think I AM going to opt to start taking birth control as soon as these pills she gave me stop the uncontrollable bleeding I'm having now.
And I have to have a follow-up in three weeks. Will that include another medieval torture exam? Do I need to bring my teddy bear?
-pH
Posted by quidscribis (Member # 5124) on :
Oh, another comment... Unless things have changed, HPV cannot be detected with STD testing unless the HPV is currently active. So, you can have it and not know it.
pH, I feel your pain. I hope you feel better soon. But no, the follow-up will likely be a chat with the doc to discuss results and any treatment, but if you have any doubt about that, ask the receptionist.
Posted by Uprooted (Member # 8353) on :
Wow, best wishes pH, sounds like you've got a lot going on. I don't know what your followup will include. As for a tilted uterus, I don't really know anything about it either except that I was also told I had one after just a pelvic (i.e. medieval torture) exam.
Posted by Theaca (Member # 8325) on :
Normal risk women get their first mammogram between 35 and 40, or at 40. It's very unusual and not really recommended under that age unless there is history or findings to be concerned about. In fact, I recall ordering a mammogram on a 25 year old and the radiologist called me and asked me to change the order to an ultrasound, as the mammogram would not be helpful to him. *shrug* Doctors are different, though.
Eljay, they should be RECOMMENDING STD checks to you every year. It shouldn't just be if you ask about it, since you are at risk. The wet prep checks for yeast, bacterial vaginosis, and trichomonas. There are swab tests for chlamydia and gonorrhea, and it gets taken at almost the same time as the pap so women often don't really notice. The tests for syphilis and HIV are blood tests and ordered less often.
Posted by pH (Member # 1350) on :
Also, is there anything over-the-counter wise that can be done about the lower back cramps and...soreness?
I'm considering a hot bath, but I'm afraid that if I put bath crystals in it or something, it will irritate the, um, sore parts.
-pH
Posted by Valentine014 (Member # 5981) on :
No, ElJay, it requires an additional swab. I think it's because of my age that I get tested everytime. Now that I'm doing a little bit of research, it seems my age group (25 and under) is in a higher risk catagory. Now that I'm 25 and in a monogamous relationship (for over two years), perhaps I won't need one this summer when my exam is due. Posted by Valentine014 (Member # 5981) on :
Pearce, I hear those ThermaCare heating pads work nicely. I'm betting you could find some good tips from the TMI thread on Sakeriver. I remember cramps being a popular topic on that thread.
Posted by Kristen (Member # 9200) on :
Well, I'm relieved I can wait a few more years, but I'll still bring it up the next time I see my doctor. Just in case.
Feel better pH...
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Theaca, it's not just if I ask about it, I said that they ask every year if I'm at risk. I assume that if I said yes they would recommend checks. Since I have had a full range of tests, waited six months and had them again, and am in a monogamous relationship with someone who has also had the full range of tests come back negative, I do not consider myself at risk.
And I pay pretty close attention, and have always noticed when they took more than one swab before. So I'm pretty sure I'm just getting the pap one.
Posted by JennaDean (Member # 8816) on :
pH, Advil works for me, at least enough to get me functional.
I also have a tilted uterus ... which I didn't find out until I was pregnant with my second or third child. I think it was the third, actually; the midwife made a comment about it as if I'd known it all along, but I'd never been told. Apparently they'd never felt the need to mention it before! It does make my cervical exams more invasive and uncomfortable than I gather they normally are. They have to reach further, to get around the uterus, or something. So pleasant. Posted by pH (Member # 1350) on :
Also, I have to take these pills...medroxyprogesterone, which are supposed to stop the almost constant bleeding I've been experiencing for the past two and a half months. I take them for ten days, and the doctor said they should work in two or three.
Do I have to take them at the same time every day? The pharmacist said no, but the pharmacy information they print up said yes.
And should I expect any crazy side effects? I'm hoping not. I told the doctor that I've had really bad side effects from birth control in the past, and she said that if I do decide to start it again, she won't let me have the shots because they might intensify my ocd and depressive tendencies. So I'm hoping she wouldn't give me something that would do something bad.
-pH
Posted by El JT de Spang (Member # 7742) on :
*is thankful his gear is relatively maintenance free (at least until time for prostate exams)*
Posted by Theaca (Member # 8325) on :
What dose?
Posted by pH (Member # 1350) on :
10mg, once a day.
OH MY GOD. I remembered that she said something about looking for fibroids, so I googled it to find out what it was.
THEY STICK SOMETHING UP YOUR VAGINA AND CUT THEM OUT OF YOUR UTERUS.
-pH
Posted by Theaca (Member # 8325) on :
ph, they only take fibroids out if they are causing a problem. It's a surgery, just going through the cervix instead of through the abdominal wall with an incision. You'd be asleep just like any other surgery. Think of it like a gall bladder surgery or something.
Um, I've never seen anyone have mood changes or severe side effects on that dose. I've taken it myself, in high school. As far as taking it at the same time, it will be better to take it about the same time every day, just like birth control, but it wouldn't be that big a deal if you were off a few hours.
Posted by pH (Member # 1350) on :
Well, if I have them, then they probably ARE causing a problem, since I've been getting super bad cramps and having my period nearly all the time for two and a half months.
And I'm terrified of the concept of surgery, too.
-pH
Posted by Theaca (Member # 8325) on :
Really? Why?
Posted by pH (Member # 1350) on :
Because it's just scary. I've never been knocked out for a surgery before. I guess I just don't trust people; I don't even like falling asleep around people I don't know. Surgery is like falling asleep around people I don't know who have knives.
-pH
Posted by pH (Member # 1350) on :
ALSO, in two weeks, I make my choice:
NuvaRing vs. Yasmin.
Or maybe something else.
FIGHT!
-pH
Posted by Primal Curve (Member # 3587) on :
Pelvis Exam Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I think I'm going to ask about tilted uteri at my next check-up. It's quite possible I have one and have never been told.
Posted by Rico (Member # 7533) on :
quote: Surgery is like falling asleep around people I don't know who have knives
Sorry Pearce, just found that part very funny for some reason
Wish you the best with your exams, I hope the pain goes away soon!
(((Pearce)))
Posted by Belle (Member # 2314) on :
If you have fibroids or anything else going on, then it's best to get it taken care of. Like Theaca said, some of them don't need surgery, but regardless I hope the doc can find something that helps with your periods.
I know about the fear associated with surgery, and don't want to minimalize it, but I promise, it's almost always less traumatic than you think it will be. Now that I'm up to...what is it...seven surgeries, it's really not that bad. The people taking care of you are professionals who know their jobs and want you to be safe and comfortable.
But here's hoping no surgery is going to be necessary anyway.
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
I hope you find something that works for you, pH, and that whatever you do, you end up safe, healthy, and happy.
Posted by theresa51282 (Member # 8037) on :
Wow, this thread has been superinformative to me. I have never had a gynecological exam. Perhaps I should consider one. I am 23 and have no health problems that I am aware of. I started taking birth control about a year ago and love being on it. I go to the planned parenthood. They offered an STD test but I declined as I have only been with one person who has also only been with me so there is no risk there. How necessary is it that I get one at this point? I am moving onto better insurance after my wedding in May so maybe this summer it would not be such a bad bet.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
You got a prescription for birth control WITHOUT getting an exam???
I didn't even know that was possible.
Posted by theresa51282 (Member # 8037) on :
Yep, they asked if I was worried about STDs. I said no. At the time, I was still planning on waiting to have sex till the wedding and so was just trying to make sure I got adjusted far enough away from the wedding that I didn't go crazy. I told her this and the doctor said she would recommend having one done within the year if I planned to be sexually active.
[ March 09, 2006, 01:07 PM: Message edited by: theresa51282 ]
Posted by pH (Member # 1350) on :
quote:Originally posted by Katarain: You got a prescription for birth control WITHOUT getting an exam???
I didn't even know that was possible.
Yup. I did it twice.
The third time, though, my pediatrician said I really did need to have a pelvic exam and pap smear.
Soooo, a year later, I finally did it.
-pH
Posted by Shigosei (Member # 3831) on :
Huh. I'm not sexually active, and I have to get one every year. Of course, I have problems with my reproductive system, so it makes sense to be examined to make sure I don't have all sorts of crazy growths. I did talk the doctor out of a chlamydia test, though, since I didn't want to pay for a test that I knew would come up negative.
I'm jealous of those of you who don't have them at all.
pH, I sincerely hope that whatever it is, it clears up soon. I'm sorry you're having a rough time Posted by maui babe (Member # 1894) on :
Here in Hawaii, it's routine for all women under the age of 25 to be screened for Chlamydia whenever any pelvic exam is indicated. My daughter was mortified when she went in because she'd been having menstrual problems and they did a screening. They only test for Gonorrhea if the patient is high risk or requests it, and for Syphilis only if the patient is symptomatic, but they test near everyone for Chlamydia.
After age 25 though, you have to request STD screening usually.
Posted by The Rabbit (Member # 671) on :
quote:It's a surgery, just going through the cervix instead of through the abdominal wall with an incision. You'd be asleep just like any other surgery.
Actually, when my friend had fibroids removed they did it with an epidural so she was awake through the whole thing.
Posted by Zeugma (Member # 6636) on :
Dude, if I could get the birth control shot without the annual exam, I wouldn't think twice. I find it quite painful, like getting pinched with pliers in the worst possible place, though what you're describing sounds way worse, pH. I've tried to weasel my way out of it, but they just scowl at me and say no.
On the surgery topic, in my admittedly limited experience with being knocked out, I've found it to be a wonderful thing. I was knocked out to have all four wisdom teeth removed, and literally all I experienced was them counting down from 10 to 0, and then waking up. No pain, no noises, nothing, just a gap in time. I had been so nervous about the procedure, but I walked out of the doctor's office (well, staggered), feeling so happy and relieved. My husband was put under last month when they stitched his severed fingertip back on in the ER, and he is ABSOLUTELY the most anxious patient on Earth. He had to be physically restrained (like with the straps) in the ambulance in order to get the IV in, and this was while he was already in shock. However, once the anesthesia kicked in in the hospital, he got to skip out on the entire experience. No fear, no anxiety, he doesn't have any idea what his finger looked like or what they did to it. He just woke up from a short nap with a sore finger, asking when they were going to start the stitching.
There are risks, of course, and if/when you have to schedule a surgery, they'll scare you to pieces with all of the disclosure stuff... but I just want to tell you, from what I've experienced, being sedated during a surgery is the best thing since sliced bread.
Good luck, and take care. Posted by Theaca (Member # 8325) on :
quote:Originally posted by The Rabbit:
quote:It's a surgery, just going through the cervix instead of through the abdominal wall with an incision. You'd be asleep just like any other surgery.
Actually, when my friend had fibroids removed they did it with an epidural so she was awake through the whole thing.
Yes, I know, but she CAN be put to sleep, and I don't think she could stand to even do the epidural while awake, much less the surgery itself.
Posted by Advent 115 (Member # 8914) on :
quote:Originally posted by pH: Thanks for the support, you guys. Do I need to bring my teddy bear?
-pH
Here is your teddy bear, and your favorite blanket. Now be careful around the bad old Doc.
(I'm not being mean, I just know that these exams must be even more uncomforterable than any exam we males can have)
I hope that the bleeding will stop soon and that after your exams you will feel better, so good luck pH. Posted by pH (Member # 1350) on :
I think I would HAVE to be put to sleep. If I were awake, I would have to be restrained by several people, most likely. I don't even know what an epidural IS, but it sounds scary.
I have, quite literally, had to be restrained by more than one nurse before because of a procedure. I get Hulk-like strength when I'm anxious and feeling or anticipating pain.
Although I have already informed my boyfriend that if I have to have another scary exam or surgery or something, he is ABSOLUTELY coming with me, rocket science be damned.
-pH
Posted by JennaDean (Member # 8816) on :
Eh. An epidural is just a shot, albeit it's a shot in your spine. (Well, I guess it's more like an IV, but same difference.) Not fun, but you look forward to it when the contractions are more painful than a needle.
Of course there are times when people need epidurals who AREN'T in labor - I don't envy them.
[ March 09, 2006, 10:58 PM: Message edited by: JennaDean ]
Posted by Jenny Gardener (Member # 903) on :
pH, hang in there! I also am freaky about hospitals and procedures. But I am very glad I have gotten my annual exams, because once a "pre-cancerous" tumor was found on my cervix. I had to go to the hospital and be knocked out for laser surgery. It was yucky. But I'm glad it was taken care of before it got any worse.
Do try to remember that the doctors just want to help you stay healthy. I hope you can find a medical professional you feel you can trust. That really helps. And Definitely take your boyfriend with you if you are scared. Just having his presence and smell with you will probably help.
Posted by quidscribis (Member # 5124) on :
quote:Just having his presence and smell with you will probably help.
Smell ya later! Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
As to your question about Yasmin vs. the NuvaRing, my sister and I both tried Yasmin first, and it caused us to be depressed. It's one of the posible side effects listed, so if depression runs in your family at all, I would try something else. I switched to Ortho Tri-Cyclin Lo which is working well so far (granted it's only been two weeks). I haven't tried the NuvaRing, but I had a friend who loved it but couldn't use it because her body would reject it after two weeks (and it needs to stay in for three). She said it had hardly any side effects, though. I was thinking about trying it, but I was generally squicked out at the idea of sticking something *up there* and leaving it for three weeks. However, I might try it someday.
Posted by pH (Member # 1350) on :
I think the doctor said I can't take Ortho Tri Cyclin anything. She said it would have to be something "new generation," whatever that means.
I'm also kinda squicked by the idea of putting something up there...but at the same time, it seems like it would be so much simpler. And I can use tampons...and the ring isn't as big as a tampon, right? Or flexible or something.
As for depression...yeah, that's definitely a concern. But I thought depression was a possible side effect of any of them?
-pH
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
It is a possibility for any of them. However, the one I'm on mimicks your natural cycle by having a different dosage of hormones each week. Yasmin has the same amount in every pill, which is what makes it a bigger possibility for something like depression to occur. Also, the NuvaRing has a lower chance of depression occuring because the hormone dosage is lower since it is right at the source, so to speak. They say it's quite comfortable and not as big as a tampon, so you might want to give it a go.
Posted by Theaca (Member # 8325) on :
Is it normal for these hormone pills I'm taking (medroxyprogesterone) to make me really, really tired and really, really aggressive?
Because I slept for thirteen hours last night, got up, ran some errands, then went back to sleep and barely made it to my 2:30 class.
And I also want to start fights. I mean, moreso than usual and with less provocation.
Or am I just getting over the exam anxiety?
-pH
Posted by Theaca (Member # 8325) on :
Hormones CAN do weird things, hard to predict. I haven't heard of anyone complaining of those symptoms on that drug, tho. I would think it'd be a response to all the stress you've been under. People crash sometimes.
Posted by oolung (Member # 8995) on :
Hmmm, I remember having experienced my first premenstrual tension after the doctor gave me the new medicine. It was... horrible. Simply... HORRIBLE
Luckily, it wasn't so bad later. I really don't want to have a week like that ever again.
so all in all there's no telling how one can react to new drugs.
Posted by pH (Member # 1350) on :
I have an appointment at 8:30am for the pelvic ultrasound. Apparently, I also have to drink a ton of water an hour beforehand and resist the urge to pee.
I'm considering getting some of those Azo UTI symptom relief pills because they made me have to pee less when I had a UTI, and I'm really really bad about holding it for a long time.
I'm really nervous. My boyfriend can't come over tonight, so he's supposed to show up at my house at 7:30am. I believe he has been fully briefed on the consequences of tardiness. In fact, I've probably been way too harsh because I'm really nervous.
Gah. I really just wanted to have the one exam and be done with everything. But no. My body has to be difficult.
We'll see how this goes. Wish me luck!
-pH
Posted by aiua (Member # 7825) on :
Good good good luck! *sends anti-nervousness vibes*
Posted by Tinros (Member # 8328) on :
Much luck!
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
(((((pH))))) Good luck.
Deep, calming breaths are often helpful!
Posted by quidscribis (Member # 5124) on :
At least you're getting an external ultrasound. Internal ones are worse, especially if they don't bother telling you that they'll be sticking a very cold object up your vagina beforehand. Posted by pH (Member # 1350) on :
There are ultrasounds that make you stick something up your vagina??
You're right. That sounds much worse.
-pH
Posted by Theaca (Member # 8325) on :
How do you know they aren't doing an internal exam too? Please remember that it's usually much less painful than pelvic exams, even for girls with pelvic pain.
Posted by pH (Member # 1350) on :
You mean they actually MIGHT stick something in there?
-pH
Posted by quidscribis (Member # 5124) on :
The internal ones are worse when they don't bother telling you they'll be sticking a cold object up your yoohoo. The shock value, ya know.
Um, Theaca - yeah. True.
Posted by Theaca (Member # 8325) on :
Not without your permission, and it may not be even suggested.
Posted by Nitasmile (Member # 8275) on :
I am embarassed to be posting this but in the hopes of helping someone:
One suggestion for those who have the pap smear for the first time and if you are a virgin, they do have "childsize" probes they can use that aren't as big as the standard size. The first time they tried to give me a pap smear, it didn't work. But the next time, they got the smaller prbe which was not comfortable and not w/o pain,. Still, it was better than the other size.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
pH, that's when the calming breaths come into play. *hug*
Posted by pH (Member # 1350) on :
Okay, the paper they gave me says, "Pelvis/tv routine gyn (pelvi"...I guess the page was cut off in printing.
Um.
So do you think they're going to be sticking things up there or not?
'cause....
If they are, maybe I should take some Ativan before I go...
-pH
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
My guess (although it is an educated one): it's a definite possibility. So yeah, maybe a good idea.
It will be ok. *hug*
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
I had both kinds of ultra sound in December at my appointment. They told me to drink tons of water before the appointment because they would try and do the ultrasound externally first. A full bladder is needed for the external kind. And actually, an external ultrasound is probably one of the most non-intrusive things you can have done to you at a gynecologist. The most uncomfortable part about it is that they kinda push on your full bladder. But other than that, no pain. If they can't get the information they need from the external kind, they'll ask you to empty your bladder and then go inside you with a *pretty small* probe. But, the internal ultrasound is TONS easier than a pelvic exam. Pelvic exams hurt me too, and this didn't hurt at all (aside from the emotional trauma of having someone down there). You seem quite sensitive to these things, so it might hurt you a bit, but take comfort in knowing that it's at least ten times easier to go through than a pelvic exam.
*sends calming vibes*
Good luck!
((((pH))))
Posted by Anna (Member # 2582) on :
Last time I had an ultrasound (my gynecologist suspected a cyst - actually there was a lot of them but very little so apparently nothing can be done about it) they told me I had to drink a ton of water, but when I arrived at the lab the guy (it was a guy...) told me my bladder wasn't full enough and he would have to do an internal ultrasound. I didn't even know it existed. Finally I was relaxed enough because I had to laugh when I saw the guy, very solemnly, putting a condom on the probe to protect it. The exam itself didn't hurt, although it was uncomfortable.
Posted by quidscribis (Member # 5124) on :
I didn't get a condom on mine. I feel so left out. Posted by Anna (Member # 2582) on :
Nothing on it? Really? That's weird. They probably washed it off after, but the condom solution is probably the less expensive, plus it's lubrificated.
Posted by pH (Member # 1350) on :
Boy is fifteen minutes late!
Claims he will be here before I have to leave, it's not his fault, stuck in traffic something something.
I'm saving my irrational, terror-driven rage until he shows up at the door.
-pH
Posted by Zeugma (Member # 6636) on :
My "needles = extreme panic attacks" husband is going in for surgery today, IV and anesthesia and all. If you read this before you head in, remember this: gratitude and fear cannot coexist in your mind at the same time. If the fear is threatening to overwhelm you, focus instead on something that you're really, truly grateful for.
((((pH!))))
Posted by Vamp96 (Member # 9030) on :
Can you get a mammogram if you have size A breasts?
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Good luck with the ultrasound! Hopefully it will be quick (and it should be painless).
I've used NuvaRing for about 2 years now. Yeah the idea of putting something there and leaving it for weeks seems a little squicky, but when it's placed properly you can't feel it at all. The ring is about 2 inches in diameter and you just kinda squish it and put it in so it stays and you can't feel it. I like it so much better than taking pills (besides the fact that pills don't agree with me).
Posted by Anna (Member # 2582) on :
quote:Can you get a mammogram if you have size A breasts?
I don't know, but if you can at least it'll save you the humiliation to have the assistant change a piece of the machine because your breasts are too big (authentic).
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
quote:Can you get a mammogram if you have size A breasts?
My mom has had them and she barely even qualifies as an A. And, she says they're just as uncomfortable for her as anyone else.
Posted by Theaca (Member # 8325) on :
Even men can get mammograms.
Posted by Belle (Member # 2314) on :
Some things can be seen so much better with an internal ultrasound, so I would say it's at least a good possibility.
When I had mine done, they explained what was going to happen, they put a sterile condom over the probe and then put a lubricant over that. The lubricant had been kept in a warmer, so there was no shock of anything cold.
I've never found internal ultrasounds to be uncomfortable at all, but then maybe I just had a really good doctor. At the practice I went to, my doctor did all the ultrasounds, there was no ultrasound tech.
I've also had many abdominal ultrasounds done, both in and out of the hospital. Every time the techs explained what they were going to do before they did it. If you have one that doesn't seem talkative - ASK. Say "What are you going to do next?" or "I feel better when I know what's coming, so please tell me before you do anything." You have a right to be told what is being done to you and that eliminates the shock of something unexpected, which will make the anxiety level go down.
Posted by Vamp96 (Member # 9030) on :
quote:Originally posted by Theaca: Even men can get mammograms.
Hmm...interesting. I've never seen the equipment used for mammograms so I've often wondered how they would do it. I've heard mammograms described as squishing your breast between something and I can't imagine doing that with size A breasts.
Posted by pH (Member # 1350) on :
Well, there WAS an internal ultrasound.
It wasn't as painful as the pap smear, yay!
It mostly hurt when she started like...moving it around from side to side to find my ovaries. And also, she had me put it in myself, so that severely decreased the freakout factor.
They wouldn't let my boyfriend into the ultrasound area, though. But at least he was there to scoop me up when I was done. And then we got breakfast and went back to my house and went to sleep. This guy just keeps racking up the points; last night he listened to me cry on the phone for almost an hour.
But they didn't let me see what the ultrasound looked like. Well, she showed me what my uterus looks like, but that's it. I really wanted to see what my ovaries look like.
-pH
Posted by Primal Curve (Member # 3587) on :
Menamogram! Do do doo do do. Menamogram! Do do de doo!
Posted by Goody Scrivener (Member # 6742) on :
I was waiting for someone to do that, PC....
Posted by Belle (Member # 2314) on :
I'm glad it wasn't that painful, pH. And your boyfriend does sound like a sweetie.
Hey, at least it's over.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Yay for being done! Yay for not being as bad as your were afraid. And double yay for a smart and sensitive ultrasound tech.
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I definitely want as few people there as possible!
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Duh. No wonder the exams hurt.![[Angst]](graemlins/angst.gif)
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