Period FAQs

can i go to the obgyn on my period

by Dr. Marvin Homenick Published 2 years ago Updated 1 year ago
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Yes, it's totally okay to get a pelvic exam when you're on your period. But most nurses and doctors would rather do your pelvic exam on a non-period day when you're not bleeding, or at least not bleeding heavily. That's because menstrual fluid (aka period blood) can affect the results of some lab tests.Jun 29, 2020

Can you visit the OBGYN while having your period?

That said, if the symptoms are uncomfortable or difficult to deal with, Dr. Millheiser advised seeing your doctor sooner rather than later, even if you're still on your period. If you are going to the ob-gyn on your period, Dr. Millheiser said you can leave your tampon or menstrual cup in until right before the exam.

How often should you go to your OBGYN?

How often you need care largely depends on two things: your age and your health. Women between the ages of 21 and 29 should be visiting their gynecologist every year for a regular exam, as well as in between visits for any issues that arise. If you become sexually active before you turn 21, you should also visit your gynecologist every year.

Should you visit your gynecologist during your period?

“You can go to the gynecologist while on your period,” says Felice Gersh, MD, author of “ PCOS SOS: A Gynecologist’s Lifeline to Naturally Restore Your Rhythms, Hormones and Happiness .” “It shouldn’t impact the appointment very much at all,” she says.

Can you be examined by a gyn during your period?

You can still go to the gyno during your period. Here are a few reasons why it’s important to see a gynecologist regularly: The gynecologist will conduct a pelvic exam, Pap smear, and possibly other tests if necessary. It’s important even for healthy and fit people to see the gynecologist.

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Is it OK to go to the gynecologist while on your period?

There is no medical reason to cancel or reschedule your appointment because you're on your period. In fact, if the reason you're going to the doctor is that your menstrual cycle is causing your issues, it's actually an ideal time for you to go.

Will my Obgyn see me on my period?

'Can a gynecologist check you on your period? ' Yes, they will still be able to perform the examination. Rest assured that some normal vaginal bleeding will not interfere with a regular pelvic exam.

Do I cancel my Pap smear while on period?

Wondering if you can still come to your gynecology appointment when you're on your period? Most of the time, yes. If it's for your annual exam, sometimes the Pap Smear Test can be inconclusive if you're bleeding heavily, but if it's one of the lighter days of your period, you should be fine.

Is it okay to have medical exam even with period?

Can the applicant have a medical examination if she is having her menstrual period? Yes, the applicant may have the examination even if she is having her menstrual period.

Should I wear a pad or tampon to the gyno?

Millheiser advised seeing your doctor sooner rather than later, even if you're still on your period. If you are going to the ob-gyn on your period, Dr. Millheiser said you can leave your tampon or menstrual cup in until right before the exam.

How do doctors check your period?

What tests are used to help diagnose abnormal menstrual bleeding?Pelvic exam. A pelvic exam allows your doctor to examine your pelvic organs. ... Rectal-vaginal exam. ... Pelvic ultrasound. ... Transvaginal ultrasound. ... Hysteroscopy. ... Hysterosalpingogram. ... Sonohysterography. ... MRI.More items...

What happens if you're on your period in the hospital?

What if I have my period while I'm in the hospital? Don't worry – It's okay if you have your period the day of your surgery or while you are in the hospital! This will not cause your surgery to be cancelled. Most likely you won't be allowed to wear a tampon while in surgery.

What do gynecologists test blood for?

Those cells will be sent to a lab and checked for cervical cancer, possibly the human papillomavirus (HPV) and other abnormalities. If you have been sexually active, the doctor might also test you for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) like gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, and HIV.

What to do if you have more questions about gynecology?

If you have more questions — or need a little extra reassurance — give your gynecologist’s office a ring before going!

Can a gynecologist be upset?

Your gynecologist won’t be frustrated, grossed out, upset, or whatever other emotion you’re worried about confronting. (For the record: If you ever go to the doctor and they meet you with that kind of negativity, it’s within your right to leave immediately.)

Can a gynecologist interfere with your cycle?

Your gynecologist appointment typically won’t interfere with your cycle. It shouldn’t speed up the flow, change its consistency, or change the overall length.

Do you need a pelvic exam for a Pap smear?

If you’re there for a Pap smear, site-specific STI testing, yeast infection testing, or fertility consult or treatment, you will likely need a pelvic exam.

When To Call Your Gynecologist

With pelvic pain and skipped periods, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Your body could be trying to tell you something.

If You Have More Than One Period A Month

Sometimes the problem isn’t no period, it’s having too many.

Tend To Some Intimate Hygiene And Avoid Douching

Its normal to want to feel confident and comfortable when visiting a health care provider such as a gynecologist.

Swelling Bumps Or Growths Down There

Noticing a growth in your vagina or around your labia can seem worrisome. Is it an ingrown hair, a pimple, a cut from shaving or possibly something more concerning? Bumps are often benign, but it’s important to have your doctor perform an examination when you feel something.

Using Feminine Hygiene Products To Smell Good Down There

Dont even bother grabbing that vaginal wash that promises to make your nether regions smell like daisies and wildflowers. Gynecologists do not recommend douching or using feminine deodorant sprays as they can destroy your vaginas natural bacterial flora and increase your risk for infections.

Wondering If You Can Still Come To Your Gynecology Appointment When Youre On Your Period

Most of the time, yes. If its for your annual exam, sometimes the Pap Smear Test can be inconclusive if youre bleeding heavily, but if its one of the lighter days of your period, you should be fine. We have patients apologize all the time for needing to be examined when theyre on their period.

What Can I Expect At My Obgyn Appointment During A Very Heavy Period

But what if my period is very heavy? What if I am soaking through an entire pad in an hour or less? Can I go to the gynecologist on my period? Yes, it is still recommended to keep your appointment, because heavy bleeding can be a symptom of more serious health issues.

What to do if your Pap smear is abnormal?

Or if your abnormal Pap result showed signs of precancerous cells, your doctor may recommend a procedure like a colposcopy (cervical biopsy) to learn more. Here’s everything you need to know about an abnormal Pap smear and what comes next. 6. Your menstrual cycle has changed.

What do gynecologists say about NBD?

Here are 10 things gynecologists say are totally NBD when you come in for an exam: 1. You're on your period during the exam . When you book your gyno appointment months in advance, you can't necessarily control whether your period will land ...

Can you tell your doctor you are having issues with birth control?

The point in telling your doctor you're having issues with your pills (or any other type of birth control) isn't so they can reprimand you, but so they can help you determine if it's really the best method for you. For example, if you're forgetting to take the progestin-only birth control pill (also called the minipill) within the same three-hour window every day, you're really messing with its level of protection. Talking that over with your doctor can help you decide if another type of contraception will be easier to incorporate into your life. Remember, there's nothing to be ashamed of. Gynecologists truly have seen all of this before!

Can you sleep with more than one person?

You're sleeping with more than one person. If you're single and sexually active with multiple partners, are having an affair, or suspect your partner is having one, sharing that uber-personal information with your gyno can be, well, awkward.

Can you miss birth control pills?

You sometimes miss a few birth control pills. If you’re taking birth control pills, chances are good that your doc will ask about how consistent you are about taking them. (Or how consistent you are with swapping out other forms of contraception when you should, like the vaginal ring .) Be honest!

Is it normal for a woman to be dry?

"Women often think they should be completely dry except for before or during sexual relations," says Dr. Dweck. "But many women have discharge —some have it more than others—and that's completely normal."

Can you skip a Pap smear?

Just be aware that in some cases, having a Pap smear on your period may make it harder to get a clear test result, but that doesn't mean you should skip your appointment. "If you're having a Pap smear on your period, I'll try to swipe away the blood and do the Pap," says Dr. Nathan. "If it comes back inconclusive, you may have to come back.

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