Someone asked us:

At Planned Parenthood, can I bring my boyfriend in with me for my pelvic exam?

A lot of people feel a little nervous before a pelvic exam, especially if it’s their first time getting one. And holding someone’s hand always helps when you’re freaked out at the doctor’s office. But many health care providers don’t allow other people in the exam room, for a number of different reasons. This can vary one from provider to the next, so you should call your local Planned Parenthood health center and ask about their policy. But there’s a chance he’ll have to wait for you in the waiting room.

That might sound really scary, but take a deep breath: getting through a pelvic exam  – whether alone or with your boyfriend in the room — is something you can absolutely do.  A good first step would be to read up on what happens during a pelvic exam, so you have a sense of what the experience will be like. While some parts of a pelvic exam might be a little uncomfortable, none of it should be painful.

When you go for your exam, it’s okay to tell your health care provider if you’re feeling nervous. She can help explain what’s happening and what everything will feel like, which can make the whole thing a lot less scary.

- Alex at Planned Parenthood