Shape - Take the dread out of gyno exams"Many women suffer tremendous anxiety about their annual gynecology exam," says Marifran Mattson, Ph.D., a health-communications expert at Purdue University in West Lafayette, Ind. In a survey of 79 women, average age 29, nearly two-thirds described apprehensions, including fear of physical discomfort, finding a medical problem and not having their questions answered. To get the most out of your gyno visits, Mattson suggests that you:
Look for a female gynecologist. Patients tend to find women OB-GYNs more supportive, understanding and willing to answer questions.
Request comforts like padded stirrups and a warm speculum.
Ask your doctor to explain what he or she is doing and why.
Ask to have a nurse present if that makes you more comfortable.
Learn about reproductive-health issues, especially if your doctor detects a problem. Mattson recommends doing some research at nwhn.org.
--C.P.
COPYRIGHT 2004 Weider Publications
COPYRIGHT 2004 Gale Group
