Talking to your gyno about things like vaginal discharge might seem too odd especially when you are visiting them for the first time. You have not spoken about your private parts to your best friend, so how would you do that to a stranger? But remember that your ob-gyn's job is to make uncomfortable things feel comfortable. If you are still curious about what will happen in the gynaec clinic, here's what you need to know before making the first appointment.

1. You Don't Have To Feel Awkward

If you thought that you were the only one spreading your legs in front of a gyno, you were wrong. Gynaecologists deal with genitals daily and it is anything but perplexing for them. We do not blame you for feeling uncomfortable the first time but remember that it is only a medical process and it is their job to check and see if everything is in place.

2. Be As Honest As You Can

Your gyno is going to bombard you with tons of questions which may seem highly uncomfortable for the first time. Be an open book and keep everything in black and white be it your menstrual cycle or your sex life. Remember that they are asking you questions only to provide solutions to your problems, not breach your personal life. Does Your Vagina Need Probiotics? How Good Bacteria Can Improve Vaginal Health.

3. Take Your Friend Along For Support

If you do not feel confident enough to discuss your problems with your gyno, it is always a great idea to take a friend with prior experience with gynaecologists for support. Your friend will not only make it easier to handle the situation better but also help you open up near your doctor.

4. You Can Visit a Gynaecologist Even If You are as Young as 13

You have spent three decades on planet earth and this is the first time you are visiting a gynaecologist. Don't fret. While the ideal age to visit the gynaecologist is between 13 to15, even if you are much older, you can have yourself checked right away. And trust us, the doctor won't judge you.

5. They Won't Spill Your Secrets

Don't think that the gyno will blurt out your secret sex life to the world if you are sharing it with them. Their job is to diagnose and treat, not report. They are sworn to confidentiality. However, if you are below 18, you may have to take your guardian along with you to keep them updated. Woman Tries Vaginal Steaming Method Popularised by Gwyneth Paltrow, Ends Up with Second-Degree Burns on Vagina. 

6. External Genital Exam is Common

Don't be puzzled when the doctor asks you to expose your genital area to them. They will just examine your genitals including your vulva, labia, clitoris, and anus. Try not to feel uncomfortable as your genitals, like any other part of your body, needs proper care.

7. They Don't Care About Your Pubic Hair

Whether you have a full-grown bush or you are waxed or shaved, your gynaecologist would not give a damn about your appearance down there. So it is okay if you do not schedule a waxing appointment before your doctor visit.

8. Keep Your Private Parts Clean

Your doctor may just have to perform a physical exam on you, so make sure that you keep your genitals properly clean before your visit. Going without waxing does not mean that you can go easy with hygiene. 5 Healthy Tips Every Woman Should Follow During Her Periods. 

9. Do Your Research about the Tests

Given it is your first time, your doctor might just ask you to get a few tests done. While you have no reason to doubt your gynaecologist, it is always better to research before doing the tests. This will give you a fair idea about what you can expect at the clinic.

10. Be Curious

It is okay to visit the gyno with a question mark on your forehead. Ask whatever questions you want and the doctor will clear all your doubts. Remember they are there to care for you.

Lastly, do not reschedule your visit if you have periods. You can still visit the gyno during that time of the month like you can at any other time.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 06, 2019 12:50 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).