All You Need To Know Before You Go To Gyno

Going to the gynecologist shouldn't be scary. 

- Kimberly Uslin

"Hi, Mom. I'd like to go to a gynecologist."

We’re not going to lie: Going to the gynecologist for the first time can seem like the most uncomfortable thing in the world. Visiting a doctor just to talk about your vagina? Um, yeah, no thanks.

But the truth is, starting around 13 years old, every girl (yep, including you!) should be seeing a gynecologist regularly. It’s a routine event that will give you peace of mind, answer questions too awkward to ask elsewhere and better protect your reproductive health for the future.

So to help you prep for your first-ever gyno visit, we asked top docs to share what you should *really* know before your appointment.

WHEN TO GO

The best age to book your first visit? Between 13 and 15, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. But if you’re having any concerns or possibly worrisome symptoms (think: missed or heavy periods, pelvic pain, unusual discharge or vaginal discomfort), you should def see a doctor sooner.

“Don’t just accept something if it’s bothering you,” says Dr. Christine Greves, OB/GYN at the Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies. “If you’re asking yourself, ‘Is this normal?’ that’s what we’re here for.”

Another reason to see a GYN is if you are sexually active or considering becoming sexually active, no matter your age. It’s important to talk to an expert about staying safe, preventing pregnancy and steering clear of STDs. (And this might be stating the obvious, but if you think you might be pregnant or have possibly contracted an STD, go to the gyno ASAP.)

HOW TO PREPARE