What can you expect during your gynaecologist appointment?

What can you expect during your appointment with the gynaecologist?

A first appointment usually starts with an interview; what complaints do you have and why have you been referred. Your gynaecologist will also ask about your general health, your periods and discharge.

Internal examination

Part of the consultation is an internal examination. For this, a speculum, an instrument shaped like a duck’s mouth, will be inserted into your vagina. If necessary, a smear of the cervix may be taken.

Ultrasound

Another component in gynaecology is ultrasound. Ultrasound can be used to visualise the ovaries and uterus. The gynaecological ultrasound can be performed in 2 ways:

Externally, through the abdominal wall (rarely)

Internal, where an elongated ultrasound head is inserted into the vagina. You sit in the gynaecological chair with foot and leg rests, without your undergarments. A condom is put around the thin ultrasound head with lubricant on top to make the insertion go smoothly. The internal ultrasound is done because the end of the ultrasound head can get closer to the uterus and ovaries than an external ultrasound. The image is sharper and more details can be seen.

Most women do not find this examination painful. Some women have difficulty with an internal ultrasound, for example because they are still virgins or because of an unpleasant experience in the past. Whatever the reason, you can always discuss it with your gynaecologist.

Tips for your appointment:

• If you feel comfortable, you may bring someone with you.
• In principle, if you are menstruating, the appointment can go ahead as usual, provided you are not coming for a smear test. If you feel more comfortable, you can reschedule.
• Are you coming for a smear test? If so, do not use vaginal shower gel 24 hours before your appointment.
• Go to the toilet just before the examination; the examination is much more comfortable with an empty bladder.
• During the examination, you will need to take off your underwear. If you wish, you can take this into account by wearing a skirt, for example. You will then only need to take off your underwear and tights.
• You may experience some loss of blood after the examination, so please bear this in mind when choosing your underwear. We will give you a sanitary towel if necessary.
• Are you coming for IUD placement or surgery in the treatment room? You can then take an Aleve Feminax 30 minutes beforehand.
• Always let us know if you find the examination unpleasant or painful.