Gyno secrets

A woman's reproductive health is an important facet of her overall health. A visit to the gynecologist can be the best way to make sure that you are healthy, prevent problems from becoming serious and address any birth control issues. However many women feel intimidated by visiting the gynecologist. They either avoid the visit out of embarrassment (never a good idea) or simply rush through their appointment without having all of their concerns and questions answered. The good news is that there are certain things that can make your appointment with your gynecologist smoother, easier to do and much more effective.

Here are some gyno secrets you need to know-

• You might as well tell the truth because your doctor is not judging you-really! Many women lie about how much they smoke or drink or how many sexual partners they have. Keep in mind that your doctor sees hundreds of patients in a year and probably would not remember what you told him or her (without your chart) if you ran into them in the grocery store. They need the correct information about your lifestyle choices in order to correctly prescribe birth control, prevent problems and treat any issues that arise. Failure to give them the needed information out of embarrassment only puts your health at risk. In addition make sure that you let your doctor know any medications and/or herbs that you take to avoid prescription interactions.
  

• Your doctor has already heard it all. If you think you are the first person to mention weird discharge or blood in your stool to your doctor you would be wrong. From the time your gynecologist was in medical school they were treating patients with these types of problems. It will not shock your doctor (if it does you might want to consider switching to someone else) and will give them the information they need to treat you.
• It's best to schedule your gynecologist visit in the middle of your cycle. Too early or late in your cycle does not let your doctor get a correct and clear view of your internal organs. Also, the cramping and swelling that can be present in the pre-menstrual weeks can make your exam much more uncomfortable. In addition hormonal changes that occur early and late in the cycle can give false reading for pap smears and other tests.
  
• It's also best to schedule your appointment earlier in the morning if possible. Just like everyone else your doctor is looking forward to getting out the door and getting home. If you have concerns and questions for your gynecologist then scheduling a morning appointment often finds you to talking to less impatient and more relaxed doctor. If there is really nothing new to address then pick the appointment that works best for you.
  
• Remember that you have the right to demand to be treated with respect. For many women gynecologists can seem intimidating. It is important to remember that your doctor chose this specialty and all that comes along with it. Gynecologist work on an intimate basis with their patients and yours should be able to treat you respectfully and kindly. In addition if your doctor is a male and does not bring a female nurse in the room with him do not be afraid to ask for one. Good gynecologists want to do everything they can to make their patients feel at ease. Above all if you do not receive the treatment you feel that should have do not be afraid to switch doctors. Remember it is your body and your health that is the most important consideration after all.