DeepSummary
In this episode of Life Kit, host Emily Kwong talks to Dr. Rachel Bervell, an OB/GYN and co-founder of the Black OBGYN Project, about the importance of regular gynecological visits and how to make the most of them. Dr. Bervell emphasizes that these visits are crucial for preventative care and early detection of issues like cervical cancer, and explains what to expect during a routine exam.
Dr. Bervell provides advice on finding a culturally competent gynecologist who makes you feel comfortable, and addresses concerns like anxiety around pap smears and excessive period pain. She also discusses other issues patients can consult their gynecologist about, such as birth control options, low libido, and painful sex.
Throughout the episode, Dr. Bervell stresses the importance of open communication with your gynecologist, asking questions, and advocating for your needs. She encourages listeners to view their gynecologist as a partner in their healthcare, and reminds them that no topic is off-limits during these visits.
Key Episodes Takeaways
- Regular gynecological visits are crucial for preventative care and early detection of issues like cervical cancer.
- Finding a culturally competent gynecologist you feel comfortable with is important.
- Come to your appointments as you are, without feeling the need to prepare or change your appearance.
- Be open and candid with your gynecologist, and feel free to ask any questions or address any concerns you may have.
- Excessive period pain, low libido, and painful sex are all issues you can discuss with your gynecologist.
- Advocate for your needs and comfort during exams, and don't hesitate to seek a second opinion if necessary.
- View your gynecologist as a partner in your healthcare, not just a provider.
- No topic related to your reproductive or sexual health should be considered off-limits during these visits.
Top Episodes Quotes
- “Culturally responsive care is so important, and I think you are hitting the nail on the head as to why.“ by Rachel Bervell
- “You don't need to shave. You don't need to really change who you are, change how you're presenting yourself, come as you are.“ by Rachel Bervell
- “Number one, come as you are. Number two, ask all the questions on your mind.“ by Rachel Bervell
- “If you don't tell anybody, then we can't really do the work to figure out what's going on.“ by Rachel Bervell
- “I think, overall, my recommendation to this listener is for them to talk to their provider more candidly about what makes them feel more comfortable, and to really understand why we're doing this exam, which is to prevent cancer at the end of the day, which is why it's really important to get it done, but doing it so in a way that still prioritizes your needs and prioritizes your comfort.“ by Rachel Bervell
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Episode Information
Life Kit
NPR
5/16/24
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