2. Don’t Have Sex the Night Before

Ideally, avoid it for 24 hours before your appointment. Refraining from sexual activity the night before your gynecological exam ensures a more accurate reproductive health assessment. Sexual activity can temporarily alter the vaginal environment, potentially affecting the results of tests like Pap smears or swab tests. Using condoms doesn’t necessarily help, either. Condoms often have spermicide on them, which can also temporarily alter the vaginal environment. Abstaining allows your doctor to examine your natural state, leading to precise evaluations and recommendations.

3. Reconsider Pelvic Grooming

It is an understandable thing to want to have or not have a certain amount of hair down there before going in for your appointment. I promise you, the gynecologist doesn’t care what amount or lack-there-of of grooming you do. In fact, grooming too soon before your appointment can actually do more harm than good. Over-grooming can cause irritation, small cuts, or other minor injuries, possibly leading to discomfort during your exam. Keeping things natural or avoiding aggressive grooming right before your visit will contribute to a smoother and more beneficial healthcare experience.

4. Avoid Scheduling an Appointment During Your Period

Unless you have specific concerns about your menstrual cycle, it’s best to avoid booking your appointment during your period. Menstrual bleeding can make some tests, like Pap smears, more challenging, and the results might not be as clear. Plus, your reproductive organs might feel more sensitive and uncomfortable during that time of the month. On top of all of that, while in the chair you won’t be able to have any kind of tampon or menstrual cup in. This can make things messy and awkward (for you, not your gyno), and just further increase your anxiety surrounding the appointment.