terrified of gynocological exam

[kimber1913]

I have been raped. Its been a long time ago. But I am terrified to have a exam. last time I went I had a flash back and tryed to attack the gynocologist. I havent been back since. Its been over 10yrs. I have gone to counseling and still do but I am terrified. Any suggestions welcome. I have tryed xanax in fact I had 15mg before I went the last time. I have made qppointments gone in then left. I need to do this but I need some help. I live in Independence mo. anyone have an idea of where to go to get this over with. thanks in advance and God Bless.

[conhall]

Hi Kimber,
I am so sorry your were raped i am glad you have had counseling and are trying  to get past it.
My suggestion would be maybe to take someone with you a friend that you trust and have them there in room while you are getting exam done.
And also let the office staff know . I know the whole situation has to be crippling for you I cant imagine how you feel. I am so sorry and I hope you find some peace .Maybe with the help of some support someone being right beside you and letting staff know it can be at least tolerable.
Sending you prayers :)

[runsincircles]

you need to get this over with because some std's are very harmful if left untreated.  You may be able to get them to put you under light anesthesia, just take someone you trust to stay in the exam room with you.  There are also centers that help women through the trauma of being raped.  They could help guide you in the process of getting the exam and teach you some coping skills.

[lisaob1]

hi,its so understandable to be feeling the way you do,.and im so sorry to hear what you have been through.,everything takes time,even after all these years,but your seeming to start to be ready to know you need to think about yourself and your own health now,and you really do need to. because you are still so important and your health needs looking after to make sure you fit and well and fighting fit then to overcome all you have been through. most definitely talking to somebody,your gp or nurses around you and tell them..then they will guide you,and support and give advice and when your ready you will have these tests..as women we need to have smears etc..keep fighting hun

[specialmom]

Oh, I'm so very sorry hon.  You may have some ptsd.  Do you have other flashbacks as well?  A doctor could help you with that in terms of antidepressants to help with underlying issues you have have regarding the attack.  I'm so very sorry that ever happened to you.

I'm wondering if you could tell the office you have this situation.  Then the doctor and nurses would know.  I would go to a woman ob/gyn for the exam.  I'd take your Xanax beforehand and have a good friend, your mom, sister, cousin----  whomever, go with you and stand right by you holding your hand.  I'd practice breathing exercises--  square breathing is good.  Breath in for 4, hold 4, breath out for 4, hold 4, repeat.  I'd see if the doctor couldn't take you straight back rather than waiting to be seen per usual for this first exam.  Talk to the office about the situation.  

best of luck dear.