It is understandable that you will feel anxious going for a
pelvic exam. I personally am uncomfortable having a pelvic
exam with a male doctor. Have your doc give you a referral.
If he doesn't understand or pressures you to let him give you
the pelvic, may be you should get another family doc. This
should not even be an issue up for discussion. Try some
deep breathing exercises to help you through the
experience, or bring a friend. I am claustrophobic too, so I
understand.
Hey there Jen, my name is Jennifer, just to let you know when your body is in a state of stress the regular functions of the female body don't work as well, stress will delay your period as all as you do not calm down that has happened to me several times, I went to an acupunturist (?) and as soon as I got out of there I got my period. A good way though is to take someone with you that you confide in your best friend, mom whoever and you know you aren't alone or at least they can seat somewhere close. I think the best way would be to confront it and then afterwards you will feel so proud of yourself. I know
Jen, I've had the same problem, mainly during times of extreme stress where periods have stopped but they started up again. I once went three months with nothing! I also felt uncomfortable going to my family doctor who was male and really old so I got referred to a gyneocologist (spelt that wrong!) and later found a female doctor to go to who I was more comfortable with. So don't worry I think it is quite normal to feel uncomfortable with a male doctor - I did!
Jen, I have to agree with Susanne. Go to your regular doctor and get a referral to a female gynecologist and try not to worry so much about getting a pelvic exam. they are a little uncomfortable, but nothing to get yourself worked up over. It is very important that you get a proper diagnosis, so don't put this off. Also, if you are sexually active it is important to see a gynecologist, so that you will remain healthy.
Hello Jen,
It is definitely important that you see your Doctor about this problem. If you are feeling uncomfortable I would recommend that you tell your Doctor, he will be able to refer you to a female Gynecologist. There is nothing wrong with that, you are entitled to your feelings. Please keep posting and let us know how you are doing.
Susanne
This message was edited by Susanne on 3-19-04 @ 6:44 PM
Hi everyone. I hope all is well.
I have a bit of an embarrasing problem that has been causing me lots of anxiety over the last month. I haven't had my period since Jan (i'm 18 and have had "god's gift to women" since I was 11, and was usually right on a 28 day schedule up until about a year or two ago. I'd miss a few here and there but never for this long.)
I know I should go to the doctor because I have other signs of polycystic ovarian syndrome (acne, a few hairs on my chin ect. ect.) but I am scared to death to go for this type of appointment!
My doctor is really nice but he is a 50 year old man and I'm not really comfortable with this. I've approached the subject of pelvic exams with him before (not in the last year) and he said that it would be best if I see him for that kind of stuff because he has been my doctor since before I was born. I don't feel he understands how I feel. Is this justified to feel anxious with a male doctor??
I'm so anxious about this! I know I'm most likley scaring myself into thinking something is seriously wrong with me but i cant help it. Another thing is his office is SO small without windows and i'm claustrophobic, I know i wouldn't be able to relax.
I hope this subject is okay discussed here, if not let me know and I would totally understand if this post is removed.
Can anyone help me?
Jen
