What to expect during your first gynecologist appointment

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that women have their first gynecological visit between the ages of 13 and 15.1 Your first gynecology appointment is a crucial step in maintaining your reproductive health and overall well-being. At Women’s Health (formerly Harmony Center for Women), we understand the significance of this visit, and our team is dedicated to providing compassionate care and support every step of the way. Our providers are here to ensure you feel comfortable and empowered to discuss any concerns or questions you may have.

Feeling anxious about your first gynecology appointment is very common, but being informed about what to expect can help ease some of those concerns. Here are a few things you can typically expect during your first gynecology appointment:

• Discussion with your provider. Your provider may ask your medical history and personal questions about you to best know how to care for you. This is your opportunity to ask questions in a safe non-judgmental environment about your body, sexual activity, your menstrual period, painful symptoms you are having, and anything else related to women’s health.1 Your provider may also provide education and advice about maintaining good reproductive and sexual health, including self-exams, contraception, and STI prevention.
• General physical exam may include height, weight, and blood pressure.1
• Breast Exam. Your provider may check your breasts for lumps or masses.2
• Pelvic Exam. A pelvic exam is a physical examination of your external and internal pelvic organs which includes three parts and only lasts for a few minutes.

o Looking at the vulva—Your provider looks at your external genitals.
o Looking at the vagina and cervix—Your provider inserts a speculum into your vagina. This tool keeps the walls of your vagina open during the exam. This is when a Pap test or a test for human papillomavirus (HPV) may be done, if applicable.
o Checking the internal organs with a gloved hand—Your provider removes the speculum, places one or two gloved fingers into your vagina, and pushes their fingers up toward your cervix. The other hand presses on your abdomen from the outside. This helps your provider feel your internal organs, including your uterus and ovaries.3

• Pap Test. Pap test (also called Pap smear) is not recommended before the age of 21. A Pap test is performed during the second part of the pelvic exam. Cervical cancer screening can include a Pap test, a test for human papillomavirus (HPV), or both. During a Pap test, a small sample of cells is taken from your cervix with a small brush to help detect abnormalities. 1
• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) testing. If you are sexually active, you may have tests for STIs. Most of these tests can be done by your provider with a urine sample. 1

Remember, your provider is here to help you and answer any questions or concerns you may have. It's completely okay to feel nervous but know that they are professionals who are trained to make you feel as comfortable as possible during your appointment. If you have any questions or concerns leading up to your appointment, please don't hesitate to reach out to our office. Your comfort and peace of mind are our top priorities, and we're here to support you every step of the way.

Thank you for entrusting us with your care. We look forward to serving you at Women’s Health.

1 https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/your-first-gynecologic-visit
2 https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/24489-gynecologist
3 https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/pelvic-exams