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For many women, especially younger girls, the gynecological exam can be a source of discomfort, shame, and even anxiety. Fear of the unknown, misconceptions, and social taboos often result in postponements — not only of the first exam but also of later regular checkups. However, these postponements can have serious consequences for health.
It's important to say out loud: feeling fear and shame is completely understandable, but it should not be a barrier to self-care. The gynecologist is not just there when a problem arises. A gynecological exam should be an integral part of every woman's health routine — just like going to the dentist or having a checkup. The sooner we adopt this habit, the healthier and more secure we will be.
That's why in this article we explain when to have your first gynecological exam, what it looks like, how often it should be repeated, and why you deserve to feel safe, respected, and informed during it — without fear, without shame.
When is the time for the first gynecological exam?
Although it is often mistakenly thought that a gynecological exam is only needed when problems arise, expert recommendations clearly indicate: the first gynecological exam for girls should be done within the first year of starting sexual activity, or earlier — if there are symptoms such as painful menstruation, irregular bleeding, severe abdominal pain, or discharge.
In some cases, the exam is recommended already after the first menstruation — not necessarily due to problems, but for education, building a relationship of trust, and prevention. An early visit to the gynecologist provides an opportunity to talk about hormonal changes, hygiene, contraception, and sexually transmitted diseases — all in a safe, supportive environment.
If you are wondering what to expect at the gynecologist for the first time, the answer is simple: nothing that should cause fear. In most cases, the exam consists of a conversation, education, and an ultrasound if needed. The gynecologist adapts to the age and condition of the patient — the exam is not routinely the same for everyone.
That's why it is important to perceive the first encounter with the gynecologist as a step towards safety, confidence, and caring for your own body — and not as an uncomfortable "threshold of adulthood." At the Priska Med Polyclinic, our team approaches every first exam with special attention and understanding — because we know how much that first encounter can shape future health attitudes.
How often should you go for a gynecological exam — and why is it important?
One of the most common questions patients ask is: "Gynecological exam — how often?" General recommendations from experts say that every woman should have at least one gynecological exam annually, even if there are no symptoms. Regular checkups allow for early detection of changes that go unnoticed but can have serious consequences if neglected.
The PAP test, which is most often performed as part of a routine exam, is crucial for cervical cancer prevention. This simple and painless examination can detect changes in time that precede cancer development — literally saving lives. From our experience, we notice that in Split and the surrounding areas, women often postpone this exam, even though the PAP test is available quickly, without waiting lists, and with maximum discretion.
Exams should be more frequent if symptoms exist such as irregular or heavy menstruation, lower abdominal pain, burning sensations, vaginal dryness, unpleasant discharge, urinary incontinence, painful intercourse, or changes in menstrual cycles. Also, for women who are in menopause, gynecological checkups remain equally important — for monitoring the health of the endometrium, ovaries, and bladder.
Prevention is always a better choice than treatment. In a time when many cancers and chronic diseases are becoming increasingly common, timely gynecological exams become an indispensable tool for caring for one's own health.
What does a regular gynecological exam include?
The gynecological exam must be individualized and tailored to the age, life stage, and needs of each woman. The exam most often begins with a conversation — about the menstrual cycle, issues, contraception, any changes or discomforts the patient notes. This part is not a formality but the foundation for quality diagnostics and trust.
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Often, a standard part of the exam is gynecological ultrasound, which allows insight into the condition of the uterus and ovaries. For sexually active women, the PAP test is regularly done — an examination that monitors changes in cells of the cervix, as well as cervical swabs for testing the presence of HPV or other infection causes.
It is important to know that there is no universal exam for everyone. Young girls, pregnant women, women in perimenopause, and women in menopause have different needs and reasons for coming. Sometimes consulting and an ultrasound will be sufficient, while at other times a broader diagnostic procedure will be necessary.
The goal of the gynecological exam is not only to detect illness — but to ensure a feeling of safety and knowledge about one’s own body, which is achieved through quality, well-conducted, and timely examinations.
Breaking the taboos: gynecological exams without shame and fear
For many women, a gynecological exam is not just a medical routine, but also an emotional threshold. Shame, discomfort, or unpleasant previous experiences are often reasons for postponing or avoiding exams, even when symptoms exist. Although such feelings are understandable, they should not become barriers to health.
The key is in the environment that provides safety and trust — without judgment, without hurry, without discomfort. A professional, calm, and empathetic approach from the doctor greatly affects how the patient feels. When there is a clear explanation of each stage of the exam, the possibility to ask questions, and a sense that you are respected as a person, discomfort naturally decreases.
Many women find it important to be examined by a female doctor and female nurses, especially at the first visit or if they have had an unpleasant experience in the past. In such cases, it is clear that the patient has the right to request this — and to be given that opportunity. At the same time, it is important to emphasize that professionalism, knowledge, and empathy do not depend on the gender of the doctor — a quality relationship is based on trust, communication, and a sense of security. The availability of experienced female doctors who understand both the physical and emotional aspects of women's health is not a luxury, but a standard to strive for.
Breaking the taboo about gynecological exams begins simply: through information, understanding, and normalization of the experience that every woman should be able to experience as safe, dignified, and useful.
Gynecology department of Polyclinic Priska Med
At the Priska Med Polyclinic, we know how sensitive a gynecological exam can be — especially regarding the first visit, uncomfortable symptoms, or fear of diagnosis. That's why we have designed our gynecology, as well as every other of the over 25 medical specialties we practice, to approach every exam professionally, thoroughly, and with full respect for every patient.
Without waiting lists, in a calm and discreet environment, we offer comprehensive diagnostics, prevention, and treatment — from adolescent gynecology to postmenopausal care. Book your exam with full confidence at:
📞 021 44 33 44
📩 poliklinika@priska-med.com
🌐 directly through the contact form
📍 Through Smrdečac 45, Split