How do I get over my fear of doctors? Specifically gynecologists?

Question

Having being sexually assaulted in high school, just the idea of an appointment scares the hell out of me. Forget birth control, the anxiety is too much, I'd rather remain curled in on myself in bed.

Answer

See a psychologist for talk therapy (I do this for other issues). They can help you overcome the fear and anxiety associated with what you went through.

Answer

I was too, I wasn't assaulted.. But just the thought of a dr all up in my girly bits made me uncomftoable, but I was open when my dr and to her I was scared and never had this kind of appointment, and she made me feel comftorable and not scared.. And now I'm ok with it.. And it's not such a fear anymore.. Just talk to your dr explain everything to her (I prefer female over male) they will ease that fear and make sure your comftorable it's their job to make your visit easy and not stressful.

Answer

You can always tell your doctor what you went through and they'll make sure to detail what they're doing and why. Some doctors will even let you help with the pap so you feel in control of the situation. They will stop when you say. 
​I've also heard a lot about midwives handling care for abuse victims. Most are women too, if you're not comfortable seeing a male doctor. They will do everything a regular gyno will do. Just let them know your needs. If they can't promise to be sensitive, you have every right to walk away. Remember, a doctor is a hired service and you can always take your money elsewhere.

Answer

Request a female doctor. I always do, it's more comfortable (not that anything is exactly comfortable when someone else is checking out your privates!) than having an "unknown" man down there.

Answer

Meet with a doctor just to talk so they can give you a walk through of what they do and how they do it. I was scared my first time going to an OB/GYN so I made my mom stay in there with me the whole time. Being a woman its very important to make sure there's nothing wrong.

Answer

My suggestion is to focus on building trust with your OB. In particular,I suggest making an appointment with an OB and seeing the purpose of the appointment as simply to discuss your concerns.
You do not have to submit to an exam until you're comfortable. If you have insurance you should be able to pick your doctor and get the same one every time.
In my experience, OBs have more experience than other physicians in regards to sexual assault.

Answer

I wish I could tell you. I was molested when I was 5, and the exam after was more traumatic. I figured I'll tell the doctor to just get it over with and don't talk to me until I'm covered up again

How do I get over my fear of doctors? Specifically gynecologists?

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