Is your gynecologist male? Here are things to keep in mind when you visit him

Women need to be aware they are vulnerably exposed in the hands of a male gynaecologists and it is easy for them to fall prey to rapists. Because of this possibility, it is always good to have basic ground rules when dealing with a gynaecologist especially one of the opposite sex.

Here are my basic shields when dealing with a gynaecologist of the opposite sex: Seek for a female nurse: There are a good number of male gynaes in most hospitals so chances are high if you present yourself at a medical facility you will get a male gynae. It is normal to feel jittery when they tell you they need to do an intrusive check-up and you need to undress.

To be safe, there is no harm in politely asking the doctor if a female nurse can be present as a procedure is done. I mean only a medic who had other ulterior motives would be offended by such an innocent request.

Ask. Ask. Ask: If a doctor tells you something that sounds outrageous. For instance that you need to take some pills before undergoing a medical exam, ask why that is necessary. Ask what would happen if you do not take the tablets and what the side effects are. Ask if there are other safer alternatives. Seek second, third, tenth opinion: Never forget that you have a right to as many opinions as you wish.

Before you give the doctor a go ahead to carry a major procedure like an operation or an intrusive exam, you have a right to ask for a second and third opinion. Do not be too quick to make decisions.

Social media is your friend: Nowadays we live in a world where information is got instantly. If you have queries about something, you can always go on a women’s Facebook page and ask. You will always get sober answers that will help you navigate those tricky decisions you need to make at the hospital.

It helps to have company: Just to be on the safe side, if you can, ask a close friend like your boyfriend or hubby to accompany you to the gynae for some procedures, it will save you a lot. For instance, if you are undergoing an operation and need to be sedated it’s always safe if you have somebody you consider a friend to walk you through the journey.

Finally avoid estate clinics at all costs: I know they are easily accessible and affordable but cheap is always expensive. For obvious reasons, most of these clinics are run by quacks who end up messing your body then you have to be rushed to that a public referral hospital.

My rule of thumb is if I cannot afford a proper private hospital, I would rather go to the nearest public referral hospital. Better to be messed up by a professional than a quack in an estate clinic.