[lovesdogs99]

Hey everyone.
So, I'm 15 years old and I have never been to the gynecologist. I have to go because my mom wants to make sure I'm OK after a sexual assault. I really, really don't like being touched or looked at so I'm scared. Also, I'm scared because I don't know what they're going to do. If they're checking for STDs, what do they usually do besides draw blood? I want to ask my mom.. but she really doesn't like me bringing up anything related to the sexual assault, it makes her very sad.. so I thought I'd ask the women on here.. thank you very very much.

[kaliope]

they take what is called a speculum and insert it in your vagina. it spreads the walls so they can see inside. it is not really painful, just some pressure. then they use a qtip to scrape some cells off your cervix. this typically does not hurt either. like swabbing your throat. the whole process only takes a couple minutes or less. they will probably look for damage due the sexual assault. I am sorry this has happened to you. take care.

[TheWell]

My doc walks me through every step as she does it. She will say, "Okay, a little pressure here." Or "You might feel this"

It's awkward for everyone. I don't know anyone who throws a party for the Gyno. The good news is it's quick and the most uncomfortable part is waiting while wearing only the paper johnny.

I'm sorry you were assaulted. I hope you have someone to talk to about the assault. If you aren't seeing a therapist and if mom has a hard time talking about it maybe you could mention to the Gyno that you should probably see someone to talk about it with and maybe she can mention it to mom.

((((Hugs)))))

[IrisBloom]

It's a very good idea to get checked out. The nurse will have you take your bottoms off, then get on the bed and cover up with a paper sheet. You will not be laid bare. The doc will reach under the sheet to do the exam. As a woman, you will get used to being looked at and touched "down there". As Well said, it's never fun, but mostly painless and really doesn't take long. Good luck, hon.

[doyoutrustme]

It's never pleasant, and I've been to a million. Not that it's as painful, more weird and uncomfortable

[Soul Quake]

Yeah it's SUPER uncomfortable.

[Can't Stop Crying]

I would suggest letting the dr know before hand that you were assaulted. Hopefully, they will be supportive and talk you through it. It is not painful. The speculum can be very cold. They can use lubricant if you are anxious and tense to make it slide in easier. The best thing to do is take slow deep breaths and try to relax. It's uncomfortable for me due to feeling "exposed" and let's face it...no particularly likes having someone looking down there. I am glad you are taking this step. It will help ease your mind about STD's. Hang in there...

[lovesdogs99]

Thanks everyone!

[growlycat]

If the speculum freaks you out--(I hate those things!!!)
The dr may have a plastic one instead of the metal kind (cold!! eek!)
OR you can request that they not use one at all. I once had a fabulous GYN who took a swab no problem without the speculum.

[JLarissaDragon]

I am so sorry for what happened to you. I can understand why you would be hesitant. It is important to be checked out however. As you get older the periodic gynocologist visit is just part of being a woman.

Normally they insert a speculum into your vagina so that they can see the walls and look for abnormalities. It may hurt a little when the speculum is inserted but usually they are very gentle and compassionate. While it sounds horrible, it is not really as bad as it sounds,

Mostly I hope everything will turn out ok. I know that you are feeling apprehensive but it is better you do it rather than deal with possible complications later

[jenniy122]

Going to the gyno is awkward for everyone, don't fret. I see mine every 3 weeks and I still feel awkward about it! I think everyone else has covered what will happen pretty well, but just remember that this doctor looks at lady bits all day long every day, so there's no need to feel self-conscious about your body. They've seen everything. Also, if it would make you feel more comfortable, go to a female doctor. I would never be comfortable seeing a male gyno, especially if I had been assaulted.

[BDPpartner]

Something that makes me feel a little more comfortable is wearing a longer length top so that you feel a little less exposed when getting on and off the exam table

I am a sexual abuse survivor and I've never found routine gyn exams so bad. In fact, gynecologists are generally (in my experience) people I feel like I can trust.