Concerns About Incomplete Breast Examinations at the Gynecologist
Hello, I'm a 24-year-old female, standing at 4'11" and weighing 90 pounds; I have no medical conditions and no significant family health history. During my visits to the gynecologist, I typically wear my gown with the opening in front. I try to keep it closed, but when she checks my heart, the gown gets opened, revealing my breasts. Is this standard practice? After checking my heart, she shifts the gown underneath my breast to examine it, and she continues to leave the gown open while also examining my abdomen. In contrast, my regular doctor instructs me to wear the gown with the opening at the back and doesn’t pull it up to check my heart. I often feel uncomfortable and overly exposed during my gynecological appointments when I believe it could be handled differently.
Answers (1)
8/29/2025, 10:42:27 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's completely understandable to feel uncomfortable during medical examinations, especially when it comes to sensitive areas. It’s important to feel safe and respected during your visits to healthcare providers.
Main Points:
- Standard practices can vary between gynecologists and other doctors, leading to feelings of discomfort during exams.
- Clear communication with your healthcare provider is key to improving your comfort.
Explanation: Gynecological exams often require a level of exposure due to the nature of what is being examined. However, how this is done can vary significantly. What you're experiencing with your gynecologist—having the gown opened while checking your heart and abdomen—is not uncommon, but it should be done with your comfort in mind. It's also typical for different specialists to have different gown protocols, which can add to your confusion.
Next Steps:
-
Communicate Your Concerns: At your next appointment, express your discomfort directly to your gynecologist. They should be open to adjusting their approach based on your preferences.
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Request Specifics: Ask if it’s possible for them to perform the heart check differently, such as allowing you to wear the gown with the opening in the back throughout the exam.
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Consider Your Comfort: If you continue to feel uncomfortable with this gynecologist’s style, think about seeking a second opinion or another clinician who might align more with your comfort levels.
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Know Your Rights: Remember, you have the right to feel comfortable and secure in a clinical setting, and any healthcare provider should prioritize your needs and comfort during examinations.
Always trust your feelings and advocate for yourself in medical situations. You deserve to have your concerns addressed in a way that makes you feel at ease.
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