4 Things Not to Do Before A Gynecological Visit

Preparation

The first pelvic exam is an important step in any woman’s life and there are specific ways to prepare for it. However, there are also ways not to prepare for it. Experienced bluebonnet OB/GYN specialists insist that women should prioritize their reproductive health by ensuring that they keep to the recommended preparatory guidelines associated with gynecology. Here are several things that a woman should stay away from before going for their first pelvic exam.

Contraceptives

Prior to the appointment, it’s important that a woman preserves the natural state of the vaginal area, in order for the doctor to objectively assess the health condition. This will also allow the smear test results to be as accurate as possible. According to expert bluebonnet OB/GYN specialists, many supposedly harmless contraceptives and gels may have adverse effects on the reproductive area, such as redness and itching which may be mistaken for a disease. Additionally, some contraceptives have substances that might alter the chemical composition of the vaginal area and change the results of the test. It’s advisable to cease the use of these products at least 24 †48 hours before the time of the exam.

Abstinence

A pelvic exam procedure may not sound like a valid excuse to postpone lovemaking, but it actually is. Sexual intercourse can actually affect the test results because the sperm’s pH is alkaline while the vaginal fluids are acidic. This will distort the results of the smear test, including the Pap smear leading to the wrong diagnosis. Using a condom is to be avoided because the friction can slightly traumatize the vaginal flora or cause inflammation, also causing misleading errors. Using lubricant is also not recommended. It’s best to refrain from any sexual activities 24 †48 hours before the pelvic exam. However, if sex did take place, the doctor should be informed. This will help them adjust the tests appropriately and come up with the correct diagnosis.

Hygiene

It’s understandable to want to feel as confident and comfortable as possible before seeing an OB/GYN specialist but many women tend to be too scrupulous about their intimate hygiene. Excessive thoroughness may alter the vaginal flora and therefore the results of the pelvic exam and smear test. During the exam, the doctor pays attention to numerous details including the color, smell, nature and amount of vaginal discharge taking place, among other things. Too much interference may change the parameters of the reproductive area indicating some abnormality. This doesn’t mean that one should completely ignore personal hygiene. Just enough is fine. Before the appointment, wash the area with warm water, making sure to avoid antibacterial soap which may affect the vaginal pH and change the test results.

On period

In some cases, menstrual blood can make it difficult to examine the internal area of the reproductive organ. Many gynecologists believe that changes in the body that occur during menstruation affect the smear test results, especially due to cellular composition and changes in the vaginal pH. However, experienced OB/GYN specialists recommend women to go for the appointment if the menstrual flow is abnormal either because it has come too early or it’s a little too heavy. Seeing the doctor will help clarify the situation. This is also a good time to have an intrauterine device inserted (if one wishes) because the procedure will be less painful.