Do I have to use stirrups for a gyno exam?
That depends on the exam. When you’re having just your uterus and ovaries checked, most doctors will allow you to lie in a “frog” position, in which you put the soles of your feet together and your knees out to the side. But when the doctor needs to use a speculum to check your cervix and do a Pap smear, finding your cervix is more difficult if your legs aren’t in stirrups. If you’re uncomfortable with stirrups, ask if you can lie in any other position. And be sure to breathe deeply and talk with your doctor while she’s performing the exam. That should help you relax. Q: Could I be allergic to semen? A: That’s unlikely. Less than 5 percent of the population is allergic. Burning or itching after sex is probably an allergy to something in your spermicide or lubricant. Experiment with different products, and if you are still having discomfort, ask your doc about a vaginal infection. Should it turn out that your partner’s semen is the real problem (you’d settle on this after ruling out eve
