Yes, sometimes it is important to seek a second opinion and find a new gynecologist. However, it is also important to first become a good self-advocate and learn how to talk, and listen, with your doctor so that you do receive all of the information. Many women (and men) are afraid of asking too many questions, or seeming to be "high maintenance", or do not do enough research beforehand, in order to even know what questions to ask when you do have the medical appointment. Changing doctors would not change these factors, but of course...it is equally important for the doctor to make sure that the patient does know all of the information and is comfortable asking questions. We probably have all known a doctor who likes to intimidate, where it makes it difficult to be proactive and ask the questions for patients. The main point: first, make sure that you are being the best patient you can be by: self-advocating, researching, writing questions down before the appointment and writing the answers down at the appointment. Get to know your doctor's nurse, as this person is a GREAT resource and typically is more available/accessible via the phone.
Sonya,
After reading Susan's great information and the link to cervical dysplasia she provided, please let us know what further questions you have. It is important to go to your doctor's appointment with a list of written questions on a pad of paper, a pen, and ask your doctor and/or doctor's nurse question-by-question while writing the answers down. An added 5 minutes worth of this Q&A is important, and you can advocate for yourself by making the appointment and letting the receptionist know that you have some questions for the doctor that you would like to ask him/her (so, they can plan accordingly in the schedule).
Ultimately, your doctor WANTS you to ask the questions, wants you to be an informed and educated patient, so they are better able to be your partner in caring for your health. If you do not ask the questions, your doctor may not think you care to know! (Again, a good doctor would make sure you did not leave with unanswered questions, and if all else fails...finding another GYN may be a good idea).
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Yes, sometimes it is important to seek a second opinion and find a new gynecologist. However, it is also important to first become a good self-advocate and learn how to talk, and listen, with your doctor so that you do receive all of the information. Many women (and men) are afraid of asking too many questions, or seeming to be "high maintenance", or do not do enough research beforehand, in order to even know what questions to ask when you do have the medical appointment. Changing doctors would not change these factors, but of course...it is equally important for the doctor to make sure that the patient does know all of the information and is comfortable asking questions. We probably have all known a doctor who likes to intimidate, where it makes it difficult to be proactive and ask the questions for patients. The main point: first, make sure that you are being the best patient you can be by: self-advocating, researching, writing questions down before the appointment and writing the answers down at the appointment. Get to know your doctor's nurse, as this person is a GREAT resource and typically is more available/accessible via the phone.
Sonya,
After reading Susan's great information and the link to cervical dysplasia she provided, please let us know what further questions you have. It is important to go to your doctor's appointment with a list of written questions on a pad of paper, a pen, and ask your doctor and/or doctor's nurse question-by-question while writing the answers down. An added 5 minutes worth of this Q&A is important, and you can advocate for yourself by making the appointment and letting the receptionist know that you have some questions for the doctor that you would like to ask him/her (so, they can plan accordingly in the schedule).
Ultimately, your doctor WANTS you to ask the questions, wants you to be an informed and educated patient, so they are better able to be your partner in caring for your health. If you do not ask the questions, your doctor may not think you care to know! (Again, a good doctor would make sure you did not leave with unanswered questions, and if all else fails...finding another GYN may be a good idea).
December 13, 2009 - 3:25pmThis Comment
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