Most women visit a gynecologist at some point to maintain their reproductive health and prevent potential medical issues. While we all know how important these appointments are, many of us tend to delay them due to discomfort. Let’s face it—undressing in a medical setting isn’t the most pleasant experience. But to make your visit easier and stress-free, here are ten things you should avoid before your gynecologist appointment.

First, don’t panic. It’s completely normal to feel nervous about exposing yourself to your doctor, but remember that gynecologists conduct these exams daily. They are not focused on your appearance, whether you shaved, or how polished your toenails are. Their only concern is ensuring your health. These checkups are vital for detecting sexually transmitted infections, cervical or breast cancer, and other potential issues early. So take a deep breath and remind yourself that your doctor is there to help, not to judge.

Second, skipping a shower is not a good idea. Your doctor won’t care if you have body hair, but good hygiene is important. Taking a shower before your appointment will help you feel cleaner and more comfortable. However, avoid douching as it can disrupt the natural vaginal flora and pH balance. A simple rinse with warm water is sufficient. Also, avoid using vaginal creams or foams for at least 48 hours before your exam, as they might interfere with test results.

Third, don’t hide symptoms. If you’ve been experiencing discomfort, unusual itching, or discharge, be honest with your doctor. They can only help if you provide accurate information. No symptom is too embarrassing—gynecologists have seen and heard it all. The more upfront you are, the better they can diagnose and treat any concerns.

Fourth, avoid sex before your appointment. Experts recommend refraining from intercourse for at least 24 hours before a gynecological exam. Sexual activity can cause temporary irritation and alter vaginal pH levels, which may affect test results. Even if you use protection, some condoms contain spermicide that can impact cervical screening. Also, avoid personal lubricants before the appointment, as they can interfere with the accuracy of exams.

Fifth, resist the urge to self-diagnose on Google. It’s tempting to research symptoms online and assume the worst, but your doctor is the expert—not the internet. While learning about your body is beneficial, avoid presenting your online findings as fact. Instead, describe your symptoms and let your gynecologist determine what’s going on. Trust their expertise and allow them to lead the conversation.

Sixth, don’t hesitate to ask questions. Many women feel embarrassed discussing birth control, menstrual cycles, or pregnancy concerns, but your doctor is the best person to address these topics. Take advantage of their knowledge. If you’re afraid of forgetting your concerns, write them down before your visit.

Seventh, don’t be intimidated by the exam chair. It may look a bit daunting, but it’s designed for your comfort and allows for a thorough examination. The key is to stay relaxed—tensing up can make the exam more uncomfortable. Take deep breaths and remind yourself that the procedure is routine. If you feel any discomfort, inform your doctor immediately.

Eighth, if it’s your first visit, know what to expect. Young women seeing a gynecologist for the first time often assume a full exam is required, but that’s not always the case. The initial visit can simply be a discussion about reproductive health. If you feel anxious, bringing a trusted friend or partner for support may help.

Ninth, prepare your questions in advance. Stress can make it easy to forget important concerns, so jot them down beforehand. Also, don’t choose a gynecologist based solely on gender—find someone you feel comfortable with, regardless of whether they are male or female.

Tenth, always remove tampons before your exam. It’s not uncommon for women to forget they have one in, especially if it’s been there for several days. A forgotten tampon can cause bacterial growth and an unpleasant odor, but once removed, the issue is easily resolved. Your doctor has encountered this situation before, so there’s no reason to feel embarrassed.

Gynecologist appointments might not be the highlight of your day, but they are essential for maintaining your health. Do you still get nervous before visits? Are you worried about undressing or afraid of discovering a health issue? Despite these concerns, regular checkups are crucial. If you have any thoughts or experiences to share, let us know!