They'll have a female nurse in the room while the exam is going on.

It's icky, no denying, but shouldn't be painful -- just a little uncomfortable -- and it's over fairly quickly. I would suggest trying to get a female doc, though. My first "girly exam" was by an old (like, retirement age) guy who cracked jokes the whole time, which was hugely inappropriate and very unappreciated! The women just say, "Yeah, I know it sucks, let's get it over with" and get on with it.

You're at an age where it is a good idea to get checked out -- good luck -- I'd be happy to come hold your hand if I could!

Candy