Appointments with the gynecologist often give rise to a little stress, sometimes linked to modesty or the fear of being judged. However, preparing well for this visit does not mean overdoing it. Gynecologist Karina Barszczewska recently recalled that certain habits, taken for the sake of hygiene before the appointment, can on the contrary complicate the examination and distort medical observations.
Why can excessive preparation be a problem?
For fear of disturbing or being judged, many women tend to reinforce their intimate hygiene just before their consultation. This reflex, often compared to brushing your teeth before going to the dentist, is not always a good idea. While showing up clean is obviously normal, the expert emphasizes the undesirable effects of excessive hygiene. “Douching and strong cleansing products are not recommended, neither before a consultation nor normally“, warns Dr Karina Barszczewska. These practices can unbalance the vaginal flora, mask symptoms of infection and make the diagnosis less precise. They can also cause irritation or local burns.
The most common hygiene mistake before the appointment
Many women think they are doing the right thing by using perfumed products, intimate deodorants or powders before arriving at the office. In reality, these actions harm more than they help. A simple intimate wash with water and mild soap in the morning is enough. Vaginal medications should also be avoided before the visit, unless otherwise directed by the doctor. If a cream or local treatment has been applied, it is essential to report this so that the practitioner can carry out reliable examinations. These simple precautions help avoid false interpretations and guarantee a more peaceful examination.
Good reflexes for a more relaxed consultation
Aside from hygiene issues, a few simple actions can make this visit much more comfortable. Gynecologists recommend choosing clothes that are easy to remove, avoiding sexual intercourse right before the exam, and preparing questions to ask in advance. The objective is to transform this meeting into a real moment of dialogue. As for the eternal question of hair removal, gynecologist Odile Bagot clears up any misunderstanding: “Gynecologists are not interested in body hair! This poses no problem for us. On the other hand, if the woman herself feels more comfortable by going shaved, it is she who decides!“. In short, there is no need to put pressure on yourself: a gynecological visit should be prepared with simplicity, not with excess.