Going to the gynecologist can be nerve-wracking. When it comes to reproductive health, it's hard to know what is considered “normal” and what isn’t with so much conflicting information on the internet.

If you’re wondering if you’re healthy, you’re not alone – 60% of women haven’t visited their doctor, including their gynecologist, in over a year. If you’re not sure what to ask or where to start with your next gynecologist visit, we’ve compiled this list of 21 important questions to ask at your next check-up.  

Whether this is a regular check-up, your first visit with a new provider or your first ever gynecology appointment, you should feel prepared and empowered to get your questions answered.

At The POV, empowering you to get great care is our priority. Check out our 'smart directory' of vetted, modern healthcare providers.

5 Questions to Ask A Gynecologist During Your First Visit

An annual wellness exam is a great way to continue to monitor your reproductive health over time and should be part of your regular health regimen. This is also a great opportunity to get your questions answered about your physical, sexual, or reproductive health.

Here are 5 questions you should not be afraid to ask during your first visit to a new gynecologist.  

1. What is the best way to clean my vagina?
2. How can I protect myself from sexually transmitted diseases?
3. How do I know if my cramping pain is normal?
4. How do I know if my smell is normal?
5. How do I know if my discharge is normal?

5 Questions to Ask A Gynecologist if You’re Sexually Active

If you’re sexually active, it’s important to talk about safe sex options with your gynecologist or healthcare provider. They can provide you with practical ways to practice safe sex to avoid contracting an STI (sexually transmitted infection). They can also answer questions that help make sex more comfortable for you. Whether you need help having a tough conversation with a partner or just need to air out your inner self-doubts, your gynecologist can provide guidance on cultivating a safe, enjoyable sex life.

Here are 5 questions you should feel comfortable discussing with your gynecologist.

1. What kind of lube should I be using?
2. How do I make sex more enjoyable?
3. Is it normal to not want to have sex as much as I used to?
4. Is it safe to have sex during my period?
5. Where do I find my G-spot?

5 Questions to Ask Your Gynecologist About Contraception

Whether you are ready to start trying to conceive or trying to hold off on becoming a parent, your gynecologist can provide you with the right resources. Factors like your age, your hormones, and even your lifestyle will help your doctor determine the best option for you.

Here are 5 questions to help you get the conversation started.

1. Which contraceptive method is recommended for me?
2. How reversible is the birth control method?
3. If I am trying to avoid pregnancy, is it less risky to have sex at certain times in my cycle?
4. How often should I be having sex with my partner for the best chance of getting pregnant?
5. How many weeks need to pass before I can know if I’m pregnant?

5 Questions to Ask Your Gynecologist About Tests and Screenings

Whether you’re in a long-term monogamous relationship or living your best single life, your gynecologist will likely recommend STI testing at some point in your life. Since some STIs can be asymptomatic for long periods of time, it’s important to understand the warning signs, the risk factors, and the available detection options.

You should discuss potential exposure with your gynecologist and feel comfortable asking any of these questions:

1. How often should I get tested? Which tests do I need?
2. Which tests do my partner and I need if we are in a long-term relationship?
3. What do I do if it burns when I pee?
4. Is it normal to be itchy?
5. Which bumps are normal and what should concern me?

Some of these questions may not apply to you and there may be other questions we didn’t have time to include here that are on your mind. Whatever the case, remember that there are no silly questions, so be honest with your gynecologist and say about what’s on your mind. Your doctor is there as a resource for you and we at Alice are excited to be a part of your wellness journey.

Looking for a New Gynecologist?

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Next up: Read our Guide to Gynecology: Everything You Need To Know.

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