Hello, so I've been wanting to have weight loss surgery for a few years now, but haven't because I've been worried about something...and have felt to awkward to ask anyone over the last few years.

I know that you have to get a complete physical before hand right? My only thing is, I know a complete psychical for a woman includes a pap smear, and pelvic exam, correct? I don't want to get too personal, but I was sexually abused throughout my childhood and I have always turned down these exams in the past as an adult. I know how stupid it sounds, but it's just something I absolutely do not want to go through with.

My question is, do I absolutely need a pap/pelvic exam for weight loss surgery? If I opt out, will my physical exam still be "complete"?

Sorry for the awkwardness. Lol.

I suppose it depends on the doctor but there should not be a need for a pap and pelvic in order to be cleared for weight loss surgery. You could also ask ahead of time. My pre op physical was basic and took all of about 5 minutes--heart, lungs, ears, throat and abdomen and that was about it.

Although this may not apply to you I am going to encourage you to find a provider that you are comfortable for breast exams and routine gyn care. If you have ever been sexually active you need periodic pelvic exams to screen for cancer and other medical conditions. If not sexually active and your periods are normal you probably don't need the exams until you are older. Most women, myself included, are more comfortable seeing a female for these exams. I do many well woman exams on teenagers ( I am a pediatric nurse practitioner) for the first time since they are comfortable with and know me.

I hope you will also consider professional counseling to help you deal with the horrible trauma of being sexually abused as a child. It affects so many things in your adult relationships and self esteem.

Best of luck to you!!

If you find these exams upsetting......sometimes going to a female doctor helps a lot. Your health is so important!