Unsuccessful GYN Exam
Q.
I am 30 years old and have only been to see a gynecologist once. She tried to do a Pap smear but had to stop because she couldn't get the speculum in. It hurt really badly. Now I am scared and embarrassed to go back. I know that I need to go. Can the doctor put some kind of lubricant on the speculum?
A.
Please don't be embarrassed to go back. We gynecologists know that no one really wants to see us, and we understand that the exam can be difficult! When you do return to your GYN, remind her that she was unable to do the speculum exam last time. Ask her to use the smallest possible speculum. It is possible to put a small amount of lubricant on the outside of the speculum, but too much may interfere with the Pap smear. You can help prepare for the pelvic exam by using tampons if you do not do so already. Sometimes just getting used to a foreign object in your vagina can help make a pelvic exam less traumatic and uncomfortable. It is also very important that you try to relax your muscles; if your muscles are tense, the exam will be very difficult to accomplish. Remind yourself that although a pelvic exam is not pleasant, it is important, and your doctor would not intentionally try to hurt you.
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