Visiting the OBGYN can be nerve-wracking for many women. Often, it is an uncomfortable experience, especially if you are new to a particular doctor. Even though the nature of the visit is very personal, a good OBGYN will gladly answer any of your questions and address concerns in a factual and judgment-free manner. Have you found a good OBGYN yet? Finding a doctor that makes you feel at ease is important when dealing with any kind of health concern. Here are some questions to ask an OBGYN to help you feel comfortable with the experience and find a physician that will meet your needs.
One of the most important questions to ask an OBGYN is a question you need to ask yourself: what are my needs? Different women have different needs depending on their plans and personal health concerns.
Do you plan on having a child in the next year? In the next 5 years? If you do not want to have a child, you?ll have to ask your OBGYN about birth control options. A good OBGYN will have several methods and discuss them all with you. They will not be biased, but will potentially suggest which method will work best for your personal lifestyle.
If you do plan on having children, you?ll need to discuss family planning with your OBGYN. They will be with you every step of the way and stress the importance of routine check ups as you grow your family. It would be smart to ask questions regarding the development of the child, what you can do to care for yourself during your pregnancy, and what to expect during delivery. Most women experience pain during labor (about only 1% saying they do not), so some questions to ask an OBGYN may be about how to manage that pain for a successful and happy delivery.
Other questions to ask a gynecologist involve sexual health. Although these questions can be awkward and uncomfortable, you?ll need to be honest and upfront with your physician so that he or she can best help you. This is why finding a medical specialist you feel comfortable with is so important. No topic is off limits. When addressing health concerns, you?ll want to ask if what you?re experiencing is normal. When it comes to asking your OBGYN questions, no question is too “weird”. Once you feel comfortable with your physician and figure out what your personal needs are, the questions will come naturally. Instead of dreading visiting the OBGYN, think of it like a learning session. They are there to help you and answer your questions in a welcoming yet informative manner.