I'm posting this in hopes it will reach other ladies out there who have jitters when it comes to gynecologist visits! I'm 23 years old and I have been putting off my first visit for 6 years. I'm a very private person and was not at all comfortable with the idea of anyone, even a medical professional, seeing my private parts. I grew up in a house where sexuality was not discussed and it was considered "dirty" to talk about genitalia. Thus, I have always been very uncomfortable with the idea of an internal gynecological exam. Within the last year, I found myself in a wonderful relationship with a man who makes me feel comfortable when talking about my body. We decided to take our relationship to the next level, and I needed an exam to get birth control. After six whole years of putting it off, today I experienced my first exam. Let me tell you, it was no where near as bad as I expected it to be. Sure, it's a little weird, but the doctor knew that full well and was very polite and understanding when I told her I was nervous and had put it off for so long. The whole exam was over in less than 5 minutes and I'm no longer afraid. I finally overcame this fear, and if you struggle with similar issues, I promise you, YOU CAN DO IT. I have severe anxiety and I feel more empowered and in control of my body and my health.