I have an agonizing fear about going to see the OBGYN. I'm absolutely terrified of the entire process to the point where I'm crying by the end of the exam. And yet the doctors always seem so shocked by my reactions. No, I have never been abused, and that's usually their non-standard, standard question they ask me with a puzzled look on their face at the end of the exam.

My dad is so terrified of the dentist that he has to be heavily sedated, and that's a common thing. It's common for people to be scared of the dentist and opt for sedation. So why is it uncommon to have that terrified reaction at the OBGYN?

I feel a lot of guilt and shame about this fear, and I am wondering if anyone else has the same fear or experiences? It'd be nice to know that I'm not alone in this.

I don't have to go to the OBGYN very often, once or twice a year, but I need to do something about my fear. Any suggestions? Do you think I could do what my dad does and take a Valium before the appointment? He said it calms his nerves without being loopy.

Thank you for your support and input.