How do I get over my fears surrounding Pelvic Exams?

The good news is you don't actually need one right now. The ACOG (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists) recommends pelvic exams only when you're symptomatic, pregnant, getting an IUD, or if you have a history of gynecological conditions. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), on the other hand, recommends them every three years for female pts age 21-65 (while acknowledging that there is insufficient evidence to support this recommendation).

I'm 34 and annual paps were recommended when I was your age. I hated them due to having pain associated with any penetration and a history of sexual abuse. What I did was schedule an office visit/general check up with a gyn with a specific plan to NOT do a pap at that appointment. Then at that office visit, told the gyn about my fears and asked how she would address it. First one I felt comfortable with was the one who told me "I don't do painful paps. We can try some medication beforehand but if it hurts you, I'll stop. If it gets to the point that you absolutely need one, I'll take you to the OR and knock you out if necessary." I ended up having a pap from her under the influence of a sedative and some numbing cream.

Have you had your HPV vaccine? If not, I strongly recommend getting it as that will reduce your risk of cervical cancer which is what the pap is screening for.

/r/WomensHealth Thread