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Does My Mom Have to be in the Room During My Pelvic Exam?

Dec 11, 2020
Does My Mom Have to be in the Room During My Pelvic Exam?
Everything about visiting the ObGyn (whether it is your first visit or your tenth) feels personal — and yes, even a bit uncomfortable. We understand that there is nothing exciting about trading your warm, comfy clothes for a paper gown and exam table.

Everything about visiting the ObGyn (whether it is your first visit or your tenth) feels personal — and yes, even a bit uncomfortable. We understand that there is nothing exciting about trading your warm, comfy clothes for a paper gown and exam table. It’s easy to feel nervous, and even exposed.

But our goal is to make you feel comfortable: comfortable in your own skin, comfortable asking questions, comfortable addressing concerns, and as comfortable as possible in that oh-so-stylish paper gown with your feet propped up in stirrups.

And sometimes, feeling comfortable means that mom leaves the room.

During your first ObGyn visit, which American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends occurring between the ages of 13 and 15, your provider will want to discuss your overall health, as well as topics like:

  • Birth control
  • Pregnancy
  • Periods
  • Sexuality and relationships
  • STDs

Keep in mind that discussions with your medical provider that happen inside the exam room are kept private. And, getting your questions answered — so that you can make the best decisions for your health — is most important. So, if you don’t feel comfortable discussing these topics in front of your mom (or asking any other questions personal to you) it is okay to ask her to leave the room or stay in the waiting area when you are called into the exam room. You and your provider can reassure her that if there are any concerns, she will be made aware.

If you wish for your mom to stay in the room, that’s okay too — as long as mom’s presence doesn’t prevent you from discussing something critical to your own health and wellbeing.