Can you have a physical exam on your period?

Yes, it’s totally okay to get a pelvic exam when you’re on your period. But most nurses and doctors would rather do your pelvic exam on a non-period day when you’re not bleeding, or at least not bleeding heavily. That’s because menstrual fluid (aka period blood) can affect the results of some lab tests.

Can a doctor tell when your last period was?

Knowing when your last period was also can let your gyn know about the timing of your menstrual cycle. If it’s been a while since a girl’s period, the doctor might want to test for things like hormonal imbalances or pregnancy.

Should I cancel my gyno if I have my period?

Going to the gyno during your period is generally okay, especially if it’s about period-related issues. In fact, canceling the appointment if it falls during a period is probably not necessary. Some people might feel uncomfortable and would prefer to reschedule, but there’s no need to otherwise.

Why do doctors ask me when my last period was?

If you were having regular periods before pregnancy, your doctor will calculate your due date based off of your last menstrual period. This goes back to the fact that in order to get pregnant, your body ovulated—or released an egg—roughly in the middle of your cycle and it was fertilized by sperm.

What questions do doctors ask about periods?

How heavy are your periods? Do you have bleeding or spotting between periods? Do you have a brownish discharge before your period starts? Do your menstrual periods occur regularly or irregularly?

Can You Have Your annual exam while on your period?

Irregular Periods and Your Annual Exam: Can You Have Your Annual Checkup While on Your Period? Ideally, your annual exam and Pap smear should be conducted when you are not on your period.

Can I have a Pap smear if I am not on period?

Ideally, your annual exam and Pap smear should be conducted when you are not on your period. While heavy menses may possibly interfere with Pap smear interpretation, we generally can see someone when they are on their period, including a pelvic exam and successfully collect their Pap.

Do I need a pelvic exam if I am under 21?

It is rare that a girl younger than 21 would need a pelvic exam, unless the patient is experiencing pain, abnormal bleeding, unusual discharge, or other symptoms. A doctor may also wish to perform a pelvic exam on a young woman if she has not had a menstrual period by the age of 15, or three years after her breasts have started developing.

Is it necessary to have a physical exam every year?

While a physical exam is considered by many to be a great way to develop an overall picture of a person’s health, some experts are not convinced that it’s necessary every year. Some abnormal test results may cause unnecessary worry. Talk to your doctor about the best interval for your routine health exam.