Gynaecology is often synonymous with fear, anxiety and apprehension. And it often comes with a host of questions. But if you’re a woman, this specialist will be with you every step of the way. From your first appointment, through pregnancy and the menopause. We’ll tell you when to see a gynaecologist and what to expect.
Do I have to see a gynaecologist?
No. In Switzerland there is no obligation to see a gynaecologist. However, we strongly advise you to make an appointment at the start of your sexual life. This first consultation is essential to ensure that you are in good health!
At what age should you see a gynaecologist for the first time?
There is no ideal age for seeing a gynaecologist for the first time. It all depends on you and how you feel. In principle, the first visit is made during adolescence. But there are no hard and fast rules. We advise you as soon as you start having sexual relations. Very painful periods are also grounds for consultation, with or without sexual relations!
When should I see a gynaecologist?
Inactive sex life and everything’s fine:
If you haven’t had sex yet and everything’s fine, there’s no obligation. Do you still feel the need to make an appointment to talk about contraception or other sexual matters? Of course you can make an appointment! However, a gynaecological examination will not be necessary.
Inactive sex life with particular symptoms:
We advise you to see a gynaecologist in the following cases:
- Your periods are abnormally painful, or even unbearable
- You have a strong, unpleasant odour coming from your vagina
- You have vaginal discharge (different from discharge)
- Your discharge has an abnormal colour
An active sex life:
If you are sexually active, you are strongly advised to see a gynaecologist every year or two (depending on the gynaecologist’s recommendations). Other situations also merit a check-up:
- Unsafe sex
- Severe pain during menstruation
- In the event of pregnancy, voluntary or otherwise
- Abnormal discharge
- Unpleasant odours from the genital area
- From the age of 21, as a smear test to detect the HPV virus is recommended.
If you are a minor, you do not need your parents’ consent to see a gynaecologist.
How does a session with the gynaecologist work?
At your first appointment, your gynaecologist will start by asking you questions about your background and your overall sexual health. If you don’t feel ready, there’s no need to go straight to the gynaecological examination. You can come back at a later date for this.
During the clinical examination, the gynaecologist will begin by palpating your breasts. This is to detect any abnormalities, such as cysts or lumps. The gynaecologist will then ask you to undress and move to the consultation chair. Once you are settled, he/she will insert what is known as a speculum. This is a metal or plastic instrument that allows the specialist to inspect your vagina (don’t worry, it doesn’t hurt!). The gynaecologist will then palpate your vagina to see if everything is OK. Various tests may be carried out, such as an ultrasound to inspect your ovaries and uterus. Depending on the situation, the gynaecologist may also take samples or do a smear test (from the age of 21) to detect a virus or bacteria. If all goes well, the examination is fairly quick and you can leave with peace of mind.
Don’t hesitate to ask your gynaecologist to describe the procedure if you feel you need to.
Do I have the right to change gynaecologist?
Of course you do! You have no contract with your current gynaecologist. If you’re not comfortable with the person you’re seeing, there’s plenty of time to find someone else. You’ll find plenty of gynaecologists on OneDoc.ch, and you can book an appointment directly online.
It hurts when I have my period. Should I see a gynaecologist?
Are you one of those women who suffer intensely during your period? We don’t want to alarm you, but we would advise you to see a gynaecologist. In most cases, it’s nothing serious, just your body working. But if you start having to put up with this pain and it’s disabling you, it’s best to have a check-up. Pain during periods can be a symptom of endometriosis. This condition requires a medical diagnosis to be treated quickly. If all is well and you still have pain during your periods, your gynaecologist will be able to prescribe appropriate medication. He or she will also be able to explain to you the reason for the pain, and how to deal with it. You can also read our article on how to (naturally) relieve the pain of your period.
I have pain during sex. Can a gynaecologist help me?
You may have heard of dyspareunia… the scientific word for pain during sexual intercourse. If this is your case, a visit to a gynaecologist would be a good idea. If he or she rules out any anatomical dysfunction, you could consult a sex therapist.
Do I also need to see a gynaecologist regularly if I have lesbian relations?
Yes, it’s important to seek advice for all types of sexual relations! A number of studies have shown that lesbians are less concerned about STIs. Yet they are just as vulnerable. What’s more, as gynaecology is often associated with contraception, many gay women skip out on consultations. If this is the case for you, don’t forget that gynaecological check-ups are important and that you should continue to go.
Do I need to see a gynaecologist to take contraception?
No. You can also go to your nearest family planning centre. Professionals there will give you advice and suggest different methods of contraception. It’s a friendly place where you can ask all the questions that are bothering you.
What are the alternatives to a gynaecologist?
As mentioned in the previous question, there is family planning. They can answer any questions you may have about your sexuality. You can also go there to choose contraception. However, if you need a clinical examination, you’ll need to see a gynaecologist.
✅ Things to remember
- You are free to choose when and which gynaecologist to consult
- There is no ideal age for consulting a gynaecologist
- Pain during menstruation or sexual intercourse warrants a consultation
- If you don’t feel ready to see a gynaecologist yet, there is the alternative of family planning.
