Visiting your gyno can be a daunting experience. You don’t always know what questions to ask the gyno and it’s frustrating. Sometimes you think of questions after you get home and then you feel like you’re out of luck until your next yearly visit.
Don’t worry though, you are not alone. Many women have this exact experience and feel just as frustrated as you. So what should you be asking your gyno? We’re here to help.
There are some questions that are more important than others. But the truth is you can ask whatever you want. However, having a list ensures that you won’t forget anything important. That’s why we created this list of things you should ask your gyno so you’re ready for your next visit.
1. What’s That Smell?
This is a common question and the answer is almost always “yes” but go ahead and ask anyhow. It will give you the reassurance you’re looking for. Your gyno has heard this all before so don’t worry about being the first person to ask. You aren’t. You also won’t be the last person to ask. This question won’t even be something on your gyno’s mind once your appointment is over.
If you think your vaginal smell is something to worry about then it’s even more important to ask. Your doctor can run tests to make sure nothing is going on and give you some peace of mind. Take a deep breath, be brave, and ask your gyno if the smell down there is normal. Bonus points if they bring it up themselves to make sure you’re comfortable!
2. Is This Bump Here Normal?
Sometimes we have lesions or bumps on our labia that are cause for concern. Ask your gyno about them early on in the appointment. Meaning before you get your feet in those stirrups. They’ll be aware that the bumps are there and be able to look at them. Not all bumps are bad. Let’s repeat that. Say it with us. Not all bumps are bad. Some are just part of having a labia.
If the bump is something to worry about your gyno will let you know. They’ll also be able to give you the proper treatment for it. It’s a win win situation. So make sure you’re asking about it early and letting your doctor really take care of you. You don’t need to hide anything from them. They aren’t here to judge you.
3. What Should I Do If I Get A Yeast Infection?
There are tons of yeast infection treatments on the market. There are also tons of home remedies floating around out there. So it’s good to ask your doctor what they recommend.
Don’t go trusting the internet when you have someone who has spent years learning how to treat things exactly like this. Go with their suggestions and stop with the google searching. They want to help so let them.
4. Are These Things Safe?
From sex to inserting things in your vagina your doctor can answer what’s safe and what isn’t. Don’t be afraid to ask what’s safe. If you have an idea of something you want to try, now is the time to ask.
Want to try a new toy? Ask if it’s safe or if it’s going to result in a very embarrassing trip to the ER. Your doctor has seen and heard it all so they aren’t going to be shocked or dismayed by your question. Just ask and prevent the later embarrassment.
Related: 10 Lies Social Media Is Telling You About Your Vagina
5. Which Birth Control Is Right For Me?
Are you curious about starting or switching birth control methods? Now is the time to ask about it! See what they thing about new methods, old tried and true methods, and how they match up with your health history. Your doctor knows you inside and out (literally in this case) so let them help you make this important decision.
Related: 3 New Birth Control Options You Need To Know About
Final Thoughts About Asking Your Gyno Questions
Whatever you want to ask, do it. They’ve heard it before. You deserve to have answers and not asking will only put you in a bad or uncomfortable situation later. Let them help you now so you are comfortable and informed when you head home.
Sarah Nelson is a nurse with 15 years of experience working with a variety of patients. She has a Masters of Science in Nursing and has spent a large portion of her career working exclusively with women in an OB/GYN setting.
Nursing is a passion for Sarah but she also enjoys writing and sharing her expertise online with people who need helpful information. Treating patients well and helping them learn more about their own bodies is a key essential to a healthy lifestyle that Sarah truly believes in.