Make Your Next Gyno Exam Easier

Skimpy gowns! Ouchy procedures! Here's how the whole thing can be less painful

- LAUREN STREICHER, M.D.

Every year millions of women trek to their gynecologist or other health care provider and reluctantly climb into the stirrups. Though no one particularly likes it, most women put up with the brief discomfort to make sure all is well.

Many women, however, skip a gynecologic exam, even if they have a problem they know should be addressed. There are many reasons for this, but in one survey of over 2,000 women, one-third skipped a gynecologic exam because they were embarrassed. Of these women, 35% were ashamed of their body shape, 34% were embarrassed by the appearance of their vulva, and 38% had concerns about odor. And that doesn't include women who avoid an exam because they find it painful or traumatic.

I've performed over 200,000 gynecological exams in my career-here are tips to make the most common issues I see a lot less stressful.

BODY IMAGE CONCERNS

Many women feel they'd rather suffer from a gynecologic problem than put on a skimpy paper gown that barely covers their breasts and belly. I always provided roomy cloth gowns for my patients, and I honestly think that's a big reason they kept coming back. It would be nice if every office did this, but there's no rule that says you can't bring your own exam gown. A wraparound robe or a loose dress with a front zipper is fine. Or check out getjanes .com, which sells comfortable examination gowns and also donates some of its profits to help women get mammograms. Another option: Tell the medical assistant that you are on the modest side (or cold!) and would like an extra gown or cloth.