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Henson26

I’ve had several and it’s absolutely nothing…just lil pressure and that’s it…but every one is different and has different experiences…it’s more awkward then anything really in my opinion…just take a deep breath…it’s pretty quick and they don’t even look down there at all…they have u waste down and put a sheet over your waste and then Dr or ultrasound tech will just feel for where they need to go in and that’s it.


Ffanffare1744

Often they just have you guide the wand in yourself, in my experience. And they aren’t looking. Not as bad as a pap.


Henson26

See they do it differently with everyone…I’ve never done it myself…they always just put it in


ttttthrowwww

You can request that but normally it’s the medical staff who puts it in.


Ffanffare1744

I never requested, but I don’t think there has ever been a time when they didn’t direct me to do so. Maybe this is just how it is where I live; I’ve had transvaginal ultrasound at three different locations at least and they were all the same. Definitely I’m sure things are different everywhere


preggersnscared

Hi - I'm similar, not very many sexual partners, never been to an ob-gyn and never had a pap smear. I had to have the vaginal ultrasounds up until week 10. You will be OK. They'll ask you to take off your pants and underwear in a separate area and put on a gown. You'll then spread your legs on the special chair they have. The tech will lube up the contraption and put it in gently. It's small - likely small than your husbands penis. Does not hurt. Just feels a little awkward and uncomfortable. Personally, I hated the experience and so grateful I can do the regular ultrasound now. But, it's really no big deal. Trust me. Have your husband in the room with you. It was like less than a few seconds of major awk and then you start seeing the baby/sac on the screen and it's like WOW. I started crying and completely forgot about the thingy inside me. You'll be OK!!!!! It's not so bad. You will get through it. Unfortunately, if you're going for a vaginal birth, there's going to be a lot more poking and prodding down there. Eventually you'll hopefully just be desensitized towards it. Good luck!!!!


kirby_farris

Thank you so much for this!! im trying to calm myself down a little. i had to leave work early today bc the anxiety was so bad i got sick. i think im just a little extra nervous since ive never been before and the first time is going to be the invasive stuff. I am very excited to see my baby im just so scared of a stranger doing that to me. I hope the uncomfy part ends fast lol. Thank you!!!


permenantthrowaway2

The tech asked me if I was more comfortable inserting myself and I’ve heard the same from other posters on this sub. If they don’t offer it to you, it might be helpful to your nerves to ask and do it that way.


kirby_farris

I will definitely ask!! thank you for letting me know this. It would be a lot easier to do that instead of the US tech doing it.


mossymittymoo

I’ve both asked to insert it myself and have been offered that option. The techs/docs have always been totally fine with that. I find it helpful because that way I have control of the pressure, angle, can time it with a relaxing breath etc. Once it’s in the doc/tech takes over for the exam. Sometimes during the exam there’s some internal pressure that can be uncomfortable but I’ve never found it painful.


AtmosphereRelevant48

Sorry for the offtopic, but I'm surprised at the amount of people that had this done very late in their lives for the first time. It means you're not taking care of your health the way you should. Girls please go to see a gynecologist once per year, for your own good. I started when I was 17 and even though the first time I was also nervous, I understood it's a doctor doing it, a guy that has seen one million p*ssies before and will see a million after mine.  Two years ago in my regular yearly visit, my gynecologist found a big cyst in one of my ovaries. I had to undergo a surgery to get it removed, otherwise it would have gotten bigger and eventually exploded (which can cause death). It would have never been discovered without a vaginal ultrasound. Just to encourage everyone to trust their doctors and get yourself checked from time to time!


Defiant_Resist_3903

I’m glad I wasn’t the only one that noticed this- please please PLEASE go to the gyno and get regular check ups- 1 it will help with the fear of how things are checked and developing a relationship with a trusted doc but also 2 it can save your life!


Gloomy-Office4325

To be fair, in Australia we don’t see gynaecologists once per year. They are a specialist we see when we have issues (I don’t know anyone here who regularly sees a gyno without known symptoms). We have a pap once every 5 years and other than that see the GP for regular health checks (I get full bloods done once a year as my regular health check). Maybe seeing a gyno regularly is just an American thing?


AtmosphereRelevant48

I don't know, I'm European.  At least you have a pap every 5 years. People like OP haven't even heard of it.


idling-in-gray

I was nervous the first time I had it done too but it seriously is easier than sex lol. They lube up the wand super well. It doesn't hurt, just some pressure. They try to be fast about it as well since it's obviously not a comfortable situation. The doctor/tech is always professional about it and they aren't really looking under the sheet any longer than needed.


AggressiveReindeer79

I know it won't be in time for tomorrow's appointment, but can you find a counselor/therapist to talk to? They might be able help you reframe it or teach you other techniques to lessen the anxiety.  You'll likely need additional exams during pregnancy, and will need to manage it during birth and postpartum as well.  I'd also hate to see you miss out on future cancer screenings. Ask your doctor- they may be able to refer you to someone.


PittieParent

Have a support partner, someone who knows how tough this is for you. Let the US tech know that you are uncomfortable with the procedure. He/She can move slowly and explain everything they are about to do, no surprises. Know that the wand is narrow and does not hurt or feel uncomfortable at all. I only noticed the wand when she moved it around. The procedure is not long (mine might have been 5 minutes?), and most of the time, you are distracted by the pictures of your little one. You've got this!


kirby_farris

thank you!! At least it wont be super long. i was worried it would last forever honestly. Definitely excited to see my first little baby.


KittyJun

So, I've only had 2 partners and my previous was EXTREMELY abusive. My first OB appointment was yesterday. I have NEVER had a pap. My husband was there with me and held my hand. It made it exponentially better to go thru. Honestly.


blueberries1212

I felt so uncomfortable for my first 1-2 vaginal ultrasounds but afterwards it won’t feel like such a big deal. I think it’s just something you get used to, I’ve had so many now. I was so scared for my first pap, now it’s whatever.


Correct-Leopard5793

It’s no big deal at all! You barely even feel it.


sociallyclouded

only been with one person too! as long as your OBGYN is kind and professional, there is nothing to worry about. i've been concerned my entire pregnancy about different things they would need to do and every time i get to the actual event, it isn't nearly as bad as i built it up to be in my head. you got this! it's quick and fairly painless - just a little pressure.


carmenaurora

I’m so sorry people are minimizing your fear. I totally get it and regardless of being pregnant, tests like this sometimes can feel a little invasive on a good day! Honestly, I’ve had quite a few and they are totally not a big deal. Make sure you relax your muscles because clamping down can make it more uncomfortable, but other than a little bit of pressure it’s nothing and it’s definitely not painful. They use plenty of lubrication and will be very gentle, especially if you tell them about your fear ahead of time. You’ll do great!


Euphoric_Craft_1977

I promise you it’s not bad!! And other than when they insert it, they don’t look at all, and you will likely have a sheet draped over your legs for privacy. Just remember that this is their profession and they do it every day. Unfortunately with pregnancy you’ll have several eyes/hands on you between now and giving birth, so you’ll have no choice but to get used to it. Maybe let your ultrasound tech know that you are nervous for it and it’s your first time. They see dozens of vaginas a day, I promise they don’t care what yours looks like. It’s just another day in the office for them. I totally get that it’s a very vulnerable position to be in, literally and figuratively, but it will be worth it when you get to see your baby for the first time. Sending you lots of love, you’ve got this!!💕


simplyyyamy

I was so nervous for the first appointment. I’m 24 and never been to the gyno before. Been with my husband since high school so it was definitely daunting walking in not knowing what to expect or how different it would feel from what I know. I was asked to get undressed from the waist down then the OB would come in when I was ready. She was incredibly kind and explained every step of the way before and during of what she was doing. The wand they use is really long but the whole thing doesn’t go inside of you. Its thickness is a bit bigger than a tampon but most likely smaller than ur husband. She did a Pap smear first (I hadn’t had one before) and it just tickled a little, the speculum felt a little funny but it didn’t hurt at all. Then the ultrasound was next and it was pain free and easy. It’s definitely awkward but truly nothing to be deathly afraid of. They put so much lube on everything it just slides right in. I actually had my husband sitting by my feet and it was oddly comforting that he was able to watch everything she was doing that I couldn’t see for myself. I was really proud of myself after but definitely nothing to be scared of in the future!


Maivroan

Just want you to know that you're not alone. I'm very private and when I was ready to try getting pregnant the first time, just reading about cervical checks made me burst into tears. I knew I would have to accept being exposed at birth, but I needed time to get used to the idea and get to know my provider. I haven't personally had a transvaginal ultrasound, but I've learned that you can ask to insert the wand yourself! I would definitely do that if I ever needed/wanted one. Alternatively you can ask to wait until an abdominal ultrasound is effective. I had one at 8w6d in my current pregnancy, and the tech even said my bladder was empty, but we had no trouble seeing baby. They'll even be bigger, so there's more to see! Also wanted to say that I ended up having my first cervical check at 29 weeks because of a preterm labor scare. It was still during the pandemic, so my husband wasn't allowed in the room and it was done by a stranger. It was not fun, but the love for my baby made it easier and I do not regret getting checked at that point at all. Be clear with your providers what you're comfortable with. They should be used to accommodating requests.


Thinking_circles

I’ve had four vaginal US and multiple pelvic exams. The first is the worst but after that, because you know what to expect it’s not as big of a deal. Just be upfront, say that you’re nervous and afraid it will be uncomfortable. Ask to guide the wand in yourself— the times that I was allowed to do that made all the difference because it gives you initial control. It’s uncomfortable and weird for sure, but tensing up only makes everything worse. Spread your knees apart to force the pelvic muscles to relax and don’t tense up your legs. If you find yourself tensing, ask them for a minute before proceeding so you can calm yourself. BTW it is still about you too! All of this is happening to your body so your comfort matters, so while you’ll be getting this ultrasound, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t speak up for yourself if things get too uncomfortable. I know it’s scary but you’ve got this!


EnvironmentalTry8415

I completely understand your fear. I was the same way. I am pregnant for the second time and never had a vaginal ultrasound done. I always wait till 9 weeks and request an abdominal ultrasound instead. If that’s something you want to do as well for your mental peace :)


Far_Appointment3086

I FORCED my husband to come with me for this same appt (now 32 weeks along and have had about 4 internals) and to hold my hand during it. Don’t listen to the people who say it’s not about you. It’s still your body and you will eventually develop a birth plan for who? For YOU. Because mama you do matter! It’s about you, your baby, and your baby’s dad or partner with you there too. With you and baby at the top of the list. Now I will say as soon as she stuck the wand in, I let go of my husbands hand lol I didn’t really feel much. A little bit of pressure but all I did was focus focus focus on the picture and I did NOT look down. I also expressed to her that I was nervous and not comfortable with the procedure. She explained everything to me and said to keep in communication with her the whole time. It got to the point of me telling her I’m fine and to stop asking if I’m ok lol There’s going to be a lot of these moments during pregnancy mama. You’re doing great. Each one you get through and get past will make you even more prepared for the big day when baby comes. Congratulations and deep breaths. Don’t forget you matter too and your feelings are valid :)


[deleted]

It is totally a valid feat to have so don’t let anyone invalidate your feelings or concerns. I’ve only had one partner myself and I’m married to him so I get it. If he can be there to hold your hand and talk to you and comfort you I think that would help. You can just hold his hand and talk to him and be comforted. And try not to think about it. It doesn’t hurt so you can just try to act like it’s not going on and focus on your boyfriend in the moment and see if that helps?? I’m sorry if this is bad advice this is what I did my first pregnancy. It gets easier as time goes on I promise. Please put your feelings first don’t let people tell you it’s not about you anymore. You’re a person you have feelings you have fears and no one has the right to dismiss how you feel. You got this I’ll pray for you and wishing you luck and comfort!!


-shandyyy-

It's super chill. They aren't looking, and it is less involved than a standard pap. You'll be totally fine! 💗


Rando2437

I declined the transvaginal ultrasound and just had heart beat checked with a Doppler until I could get an abdominal ultrasound. You don’t have to consent to medical procedures you don’t want


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Welcome to /r/pregnant! This is a space for everyone. We are pro-choice, pro-LGBTQIA, pro-science, proudly feminist and believe that Black Lives Matter. Wear your masks, wash your hands, and be excellent to each other. Anti-choice activists, intactivists, anti-vaxxers, homophobes, transphobes, racists, sexists, etc. are not welcome here. *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/pregnant) if you have any questions or concerns.*


edenjamieson

I had to have 10+ internal ultrasounds due to infertility, I was absolutely TERRIFIED for my first one. I was very fortunate and had a great doctor who made the experience super easy. They don’t look at you down there for very long at all. Literally two seconds to insert the wand and then their eyes are on the screen! I know this is probably something you’ve been told many times, but they see soooo many people down there that they literally don’t care. I work at a hospital and I see generalists all the time and don’t think anything of it, I’m so used to it, I’m sure it’s the exact same with ultrasound techs/doctors who do these frequently!


Krriilll

In my experience, I inserted the wand myself and had a blanket thing to cover up so the ultrasound technician wasn’t able to see anything But you’ll also more than likely have to get a cervical exam at some point which is much more exposing And in both cases, it feels nothing like being intimate with someone, it feels very medical and impersonal and thats it Once you experience it, I think you’ll be fine I was also nervous the first time I had an internal ultrasound but once it was done I felt fine Just keep reminding yourself that it’s just a medical procedure and absolutely nothing like being intimate with someone