How long is an obgyn appointment

If it's the first time the patient has had a pelvic exam, I typically will ask the patient if she wants to see the equipment we use—like the speculum. Then, I ask the patient to put her feet in the footrests.

I stand up by the patient's head while she slides down to the edge of the table, so I can move the pillow down with her. The next step is a visual external pelvic exam and an internal pelvic exam with my fingers. The final step is a speculum exam, if needed. Siedhoff: The best thing to do is to come prepared with a list of questions and an idea of what your menstrual pattern looks like.

For questions, consider contraception options, pregnancy planning, and fertility issues. A lot of times, patients leave the doctor's office and say, "I wish I'd asked that," and then they're too shy to reach out again.

Another thing to think about is whether somebody else is going to be there. Sometimes it can be helpful, but sometimes it can be an impediment. We usually try to get parents out of the room at some point so that we can ask questions that we don't know if the patient is comfortable answering in front of their parents, like sexual practices. Siedhoff: We always, at some point, ask if people feel safe at home—if there are any concerns or incidents of partner violence, domestic violence, or harassment.

We also screen for mood disorders and ask about depression, substance abuse, and alcohol use. The entire bimanual exam should take one minute or less. Keep in mind that your gynecologist visit might include a breast exam, in which your doctor will feel your breasts and upper arms for lumps. It typically takes 1 day to 2 weeks to get results from an STI test, and weeks to get results from a pap smear. It also might be a good idea to schedule your next appointment before you leave the office.

Our online, doctor-designed consultation takes into account your medical history and lifestyle preferences to choose the best contraception method for you. Got questions? Your doctor is just a message away. Our care team will always be here for you. Complete online medical consultation. Polycystic what? Plus, how hormonal birth control might help relieve some of the symptoms of perimenopause. What to Expect at a Gynecologist Visit. The pelvic exam in your gynecological exam is comprised of four main steps: the external genital exam, the speculum exam, the Pap Smear test and the bimanual exam.

For the exam, you will lie on the examining table in a dressing gown with your legs in stirrups or knee rests and a sheet is draped over your legs for your personal privacy. Once you are comfortable, your gynecologist will ask you to spread your knees apart. At this point, try to relax as much as possible. Breathe deeply and do not tense your muscles. This is will make the exam less painful and more efficient. Rest assured that if you have requested the company of a friend or family member or chaperone, that they will be asked to stand at a location that preserves your personal privacy.

During the external genital exam your clinician will visually examine the vulva and labia. They are checking for abnormalities, such as irritation, swelling, redness, cysts, or any visual indication of sexually transmitted diseases STD. After the external examination is concluded, a sterile medical device called a speculum will be inserted into the vagina.

This is not painful but may feel a little cool. Once in place, the speculum is opened slightly to separate the walls of the vagina so that the cervix can be examined. You may feel pressure or brief discomfort at this point, but remember, if you stay relaxed, this part will be easier, and always communicate with your health care provider concerning your level of comfort. When the speculum is opened, your cervix will be examined.

The clinician is looking for signs of irritation, atypical discharge, or indications of sexually transmitted disease. With the speculum still in place, your health care provider will continue with the Pap Smear test. A Pap Smear checks for precancerous or cancerous cells. This is a quick procedure that involves taking a sample of your cervical cells and testing them to verify that they are healthy. It will feel like a strong pinch. This annual test is very important and it is necessary even if you are not experiencing any symptoms and do not have any personal concerns.

However, you will not know the results of the Pap Smear test at your appointment. The cell sample has to be sent to a laboratory where it is carefully examined.

Your results will take a few weeks to get back to you.