Posted by Tamar on June 20, 2005, at 4:40:08
In reply to Re: Women’s things (****possible trigger****) » Tamar, posted by daisym on June 20, 2005, at 0:41:42
> Do you like and trust your OB/GYN? If not, look for another one. If so, can you tell him/her that these exams trigger you due to abuse in your childhood? I've had the same (female) MD for 17 yrs and I told just over a year ago. She said she guessed (she delivered two of my kids) but didn't want to pry. She has always been really good at telling me what she was going to do before she did it and she is very, very gentle.
I've seen a few ob/gyn doctors over the years for various reasons. I guess I need to find someone I can talk to.
> You should be able to have all three things done at the same time. They go together. I think the idea of a tranquilizer is a good one. You also need a breast exam...
It's true; the three things do go together. And I think I'm starting to imagine being able to face them all at once. But a breast exam! No way! Absolutely not! For some reason that's even worse than a pelvic exam. Argh! No one ever said anything about a breast exam. I will stop freaking out any minute... I just have to reach for my cigarettes...
> Do the breathing you learned for birth. Ask the nurse to stay and hold your hand. That way you won't feel so vulnerable and alone. Do something completely different after the appointment, don't mimic the aftermath of the abuse -- like showering or bathing or sleeping. Keep these things as separate as you can.Good idea about the breathing and hand-holding. And about not showering or sleeping. I guess I'll just try to stay out of the house for a few hours afterwards.
> It is really important to take care of your health. Having problems in this area will be so much more tramatic than having the exams. Please, do it for your baby. I can't tell you how many women I've worked with that skipped postpartum exams and ended up with problems.I guess one reason I'm afraid of the exams is the fear that there could be problems, which would mean treatment and more triggers. But you're right: if there are any problems it's best to catch them now.
> I'll stay with you in spirit, OK? I'm a really good birth coach, so this would be a piece of cake!Thank you! It'll be good to know I have some support out there.
Tamar
poster:Tamar
thread:515584
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/psycho/20050615/msgs/515867.html