Posted by Tamar on June 19, 2005, at 16:28:12
OK, this one’s going to be a bit embarrassing…
I was due to get a pap smear several months ago but I was pregnant and was advised not to until after the birth. So I should really get one as soon as possible.
I was supposed to get an internal exam after my baby was born, to check everything’s back to normal in there, but I refused. I know I need to get that done too.
I also need to do something about contraception, because I really shouldn’t get pregnant again at the moment. And the best option for me is an IUD. But that involves having the damn thing inserted.
I simply can’t stand anyone touching me in there. I know I have to do these things but I just can’t imagine making an appointment. I had to have a bit of internal interference during childbirth and that was simply awful. And back then I was still seeing my therapist.
It triggers such nasty feelings for me. I always feel invaded and violated. But here’s the strange thing: I think I would feel more comfortable with a male doctor instead of a woman. Is that just weird?
And my main question: do you think it’s going to be less traumatic to get all three things done at once? Or do you think it’ll be easier to get them done separately?
And does anyone have any tips for making it bearable? I find the triggers simply overwhelming and I’m torn between concerns for my physical health and concerns for my mental health.
Argh! Any advice welcome!
Tamar
poster:Tamar
thread:515584
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/psycho/20050615/msgs/515584.html