Checklist for Visiting Your Gynecologist

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When you leave a gynecologist appointment, do you feel as though you still have unanswered questions, misunderstood answers, and worry you're not getting a full exam to which you are entitled?  It's up to you to communicate with your doctor your need to have this important information, and your prepared questions should be welcomed.

These questions and talking points can help you have your best visit yet.  Bring a notepad to jot down the information, then, before you leave, repeat it back to the doctor to be sure you've understood.  Better yet, bring someone with you to take the notes for you.

Be prepared for your next visit to the gynecologist with this checklist:

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Contraception:  Ask whether you're using the right form for you. For example, the pill might not be the best option if you smoke, are physically inactive, and are over 35.
 
Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs):  Testing for STDs is not part of the Pap smear; ask your doctor which STDs (HIV, chlamydia, or gonorrhea, for example) you should be screened for.
 
Mammograms:  You should get one annually, starting at age 40 (earlier if you have a family history of breast cancer).
 
Pap Smear:  Ask for the new ThinPrep test, which more accurately shows cell abnormalities. Your doctor takes the sample the usual way, then dips it into a solution that breaks down the mucus, blood and inflammation that can make it hard to see the cervical cells.
 
Human Papillomavirus (HPV):  New guidelines suggest that if your results are inconclusively abnormal (called ASC-US), you should be tested for HPV strains that can cause cervical cancer.
 
Fibroids:  Tell your doctor if you've had heavier or more-painful-than-usual periods, which may be a sign of fibroids.
 
The Rest of the Exam:  Your visit should include a pelvic and rectal exam to check for signs of vaginal infections, uterine fibroids, STDs or ovarian cysts.

(c) Copyright 2014 Robyn King. All Rights Reserved.

 




Read more: http://www.oprah.com/health/Checklists-for-Visiting-the-Doctor/2#ixzz2vfarymlD 
(c) Copyright 2014 Robyn M. King. All Rights Reserved.