But
of all doctors, it seems that GYN visits are the most difficult for
making our needs known. After all, we're hardly in a position to feel
empowered - on our backs with our legs wide and feet in the stirrups.
It's difficult to speak up in this vulnerable pose, even with a doctor
who's willing to listen.
Do
you ever leave your GYN's office feeling more confused about your
reproductive health than when you went in? Or that you had questions to
ask or observations to make but couldn't get a word in edgewise?Well,
join the club. It seems that this is a common experience, and not just
with GYNs. Studies have shown that when a patient starts talking, it
takes doctors an average of only 11 seconds before they interrupt. 11
seconds! That's barely enough time to say, "Doctor, I have a
question..."While we're not dissing all doctors (there are many
good ones out there!), it does seem like many of them could use a
course in active listening (or basic bedside manners).But of
all doctors, it seems that GYN visits are the most difficult for making
our needs known. After all, we're hardly in a position to feel
empowered - on our backs with our legs wide and feet in the stirrups.
It's difficult to speak up in this vulnerable pose, even with a doctor
who's willing to listen.Savvy suggestionsSo how do
we get the information we need from our doctors? It all comes back to
us - we are our own best advocates. As women, we have a long legacy of
being disempowered and disenfranchised - especially with authority
figures. But guess what? Nobody - even a doctor - knows YOUR BODY
better than YOU.* It's important to remember that your GYN
appointment is YOURS. For that hour, half-hour, or even 15 minutes, the
doctor is on your time. This session is all about YOU, baby!*
Come prepared with a list of questions and concerns. Be sure to write
them down! That way you won't forget them, even if you start feeling
nervous or unsure. And if you don't know what sorts of questions to
ask, call us right away at 212-581-0001, or email us at
info@laughingsagewellness.com - we'll help you formulate your questions
based on your current health concerns.* Ask your questions and
make your needs known BEFORE you get on the table. Once you're in the
stirrups, you're less likely to push a matter if your doctor is
inattentive or in disagreement. Also, your doctor will have less
attention to spare for conversation, once focused on the ins and outs
of your pelvic exam (pun intended).* Write down your doctor's
answers to your questions - by the time you've made it out of their
office and moved on with your day, you're less likely to clearly
remember what was said. This gives you a starting place should you need
to look up any more information on your own.* If your doctor
seems unwilling to discuss your concerns or answer your questions,
don't be afraid to stand your ground. State calmly but clearly that you
intend to understand what is happening in your own body, and would like
his or her cooperation - and the sooner your questions are answered,
the sooner he or she can complete your exam and move on to the next
patient!* And if after all of that, you still find your
experience unsatisfying, don't be afraid to move on! There are lots and
lots of GYNs out there - and your health is far too important to not
find the very best doctor for YOU.In the end, it turns out that
women are the best primary care physicians for themselves. Learn to
listen to your body, and to trust your intuition. Then you will be able
to make the best decisions for yourself, while allowing your doctors
and other health care practitioners to act as your partners (rather
than your authority figures) on your path to vibrant health and
wellness.Share your storiesShare your tales of
pelvic exam empowerment in our comments section below. Here you can
share your experiences and ask questions, and an LSW Counselor will
respond!Laughing Sage Wellness is committed to helping women
become their own best experts on their bodies and their health. After
all, who knows you better than YOU?
Laughing Sage Wellness Group
was founded by Alisa Vitti, a Certified Holistic Health Counselor (AADP).
Alisa is committed to empowering clients to reconnect with the wisdom
of their bodies. She received degrees from Johns Hopkins University
and the Institute of Integrative Nutrition. She has taught at the Institute
for Integrative Nutrition and lectures regularly at Beth Israel Medical
Practices and Westerly Health Foods in Manhattan. She travels
nationally, reaching out to women who are ready to create vibrant health
and amazing futures for themselves. She specializes in the areas of
reproductive and hormonal health and creating real intimacy in relationships.
