ask patients to sign a document in which they authorize the doctor and his staff to:
1) Take pictures for educational and evidentiary purposes as they may wish.
2) Have access to your medical records for research without revealing your identity.

I am disappointed with the new surgeon that I just saw last thursday. I had read from patient reviews that he was so compassionate and understanding. I thought that in an effort to let him know that he needs to be sensitive with me, I ought to be very specific about my tendency to dissociate when I am not told what is happening and what he will do next. Just not use psychotherapeutic terminology I said that I later experience my self to be a being from another planet.

Once we started discussing the recommeded treatment, he said, "You didn't have one of your alien experiences, did you?" ( Due to CSA among other forms of abuse that I suffered from, I never had the opportunity to interact with my peers in order to compare my experience at home. Mom talked about other moms and my peers with an "us versus them" perspective. Also, as a result of all the psychological, emotional and physical pain, I lost touch with reality. I escaped into sci-fi movies and TV series and confused fantasy with reality. That's when I noticed that two different selves existed within me. It is still difficult for me to relate to other people without feeling "strange." I also experience recurring confusion about my sexual orientation.)

At the end of the discussion, he remarked, "Next time, don't wait 30 years to see a gynecologist." (I was misled by mom to believe that only women who are sexually active need to see a gynecologist. After I discovered this inner tissue hanging out from my vagina, fear motivated me to make my 1st appointment with a gynecologist. The reactions of the 2 previous gynecologists that I have seen, have intensified feelings of shame and of feeling strange. They usually see women who have already been pregnant, are sexually active and have been to the gynecologist countless times. So there I am...this being who just landed from Mars or wherever...)

I love the feeling of safety here at Psychcentral. It feels reassuring to be part of this community. Any words of support will be much appreciated.