Gyno vists and fears.. maybe TMI just need to get this off my chest

Good for you for going. The exam is really painless and goes by really quick. Shannon went over a typical exam, and what it entails. So there is nothing sexual about it, but I would let them know about your past, and they are probably not going to pray or make you feel awkward. Even though I have had this exam many times, I still dread it, but I think of it this way, It's me AGAINST cancer. And that helps, plus you can practice breathing. It's important to breathe, and relax. I also try to remember and take motrin, it's more for my mental state. But it's really over before you know it. And don't feel bad about not going before, we all have our reasons. I didn't go until I was 21.

I just had to go back and edit my comment...I realized the wording was unclear and I may have just told Shannon C that her vagina looks like salad tongs. I meant the speculum.

Girl, you will be fine! If the gyno asks why you haven't been, tell her the truth, and she will 100% understand, trust me, and she will not judge you. You're making a great decision by going. Bring a friend if it makes you feel better. They can stand next to your head while the doctor looks down below. Just talk about normal every day stuff and don't focus on what is going on under the paper gown

My advice is similar to everyone else's, YOU CAN DO THIS GIRL!!! GOOD LUCK!

And whatever you do RELAX during the exam. Though it isn't all that painfull, the more tense you and your muscles are...the more uncomfortable the exam will be. take a deep breathe, focus at something on the ceiling and just let your muscles melt in to the bed. This will make the exam as comfortable as possible for you.

I'll give you a little secret of mine that helps alot! I think about the beach, and sand, and that always relaxes me. Also my FS and I schedule a date night that night or something fun for the weekend, so it's something to look forward to, so I end up thinking about that too, and the sooner I'm done with the lady exam, the sooner I get to enjoy my date with FS! Maybe that can help you too.

Thank you all. i am going to try and make the phone call today

I agree with @Candice, You need to get the birth control a few months in advance. It can cause side effects, and may not be fully effective until one full cycle.

The other thing might be that you definitely need to tell your gyn that you are not sexually active, and I would tell them what you've told us here. That can affect how they handle the physical examination. There are smaller tools they can use that are less painful if you are not currently sexually active. Just FYI.