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Talking to Your OB/GYN

Talking to Your OB/GYN


An annual visit to the OB/GYN or healthcare professional is important—not only for checking on your health status, but also to let your healthcare professional know about changes in your life that could have an impact on your reproductive and sexual health. It can be a little intimidating, but you should always feel comfortable asking any questions and discussing topics that are on your mind. The tips below will help you get ready for your next appointment. You can even create a custom list with our My Doctor Questions tool to bring along on your next visit.

Be Ready to Ask Questions

Review our list for the questions most relevant to you. Click to mark any question you'd like to add to your customized My Doctor Questions list.

Reproductive Health


How do I know what birth control method is best for me?
What are the benefits of low-dose birth control pills?
How do I know if I'm doing my breast self-examination correctly?
How often do I need a Pap smear or gynecological checkup?
When should I get a mammogram?
How do I know if my period is normal?
What changes in my menstrual cycle are important to note?
Can my diet and exercise habits affect my reproductive health?

Sexual Health


How can I practice safe sex?
How do I know if I have a sexually transmitted disease?
Should I be tested for HIV or sexually transmitted diseases?
Should I be vaccinated against HPV?




Be Prepared with Information

In addition to having questions ready, here are some things you can do to prepare for your appointment:

  • Know the dates of your last period.
  • Make a list of current or recently taken medications.
  • Be prepared to answer questions about your medical history, including surgeries, immunizations and your menstrual cycle.
  • Make a list of any allergies you have and your family history (eg, conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, kidney disease).
  • If you have medical records from previous gynecological exams, have them sent to your healthcare professional or bring them with you.
  • If you're sexually active, you'll be asked if you need contraception. Be prepared to answer these questions about your sexual activity. Remember, being honest helps your healthcare professional properly treat you.
  • If you are using a diaphragm or cervical cap, bring it to your exam so that your healthcare professional can examine it for signs of wear or determine if you need to be refitted.


Things to discuss during your visit:

  • Let your healthcare professional know about your day-to-day life, including your eating and sleeping patterns, stress management, relationships and overall outlook.
  • If you've read something in a newspaper or magazine that you're interested in or concerned about, bring it in so that you can talk about it.
  • Speak to your healthcare professional about osteoporosis and ways you can prevent it as you get older.
  • If you're thinking about having a child some time in the next year or so, talk about it with your healthcare professional. He or she can provide advice about appropriate contraception until you are ready to try to conceive.
  • Ask your healthcare professional to recommend books or other information resources for any health and lifestyle changes you're considering.


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