So I know that somethings are supposed to be private and we don’t talk about it, but well, you know me. Even though I can be a hypochondriac at times, doctor’s visits often cause me, like many people, a great amount of anxiety. After scheduling, canceling and rescheduling my physical more times than I can count, I went to today for my physical including the dreaded PAP smear, which was way overdue.
Luckily, I have a terrific Nurse Practitioner that is very kind and patient and kind of fun all in one. She answered all my questions and helped get me squared away on some issues. I know that some of this might be TMI, but there are a couple highlights I would to share – namely, our conversation about pubic hair fashion.
I don’t know if you are aware of this or not, but I am dating now and would like to be “cool” so I say to Lauren, ” You see a lot of crotches right?” She says yes and then I go on to say, “well, I’m dating now and I’m wondering what is the current trend with pubic hair. Like are landing strips still a thing?” I’m pleased to report that landing strips and other novelty grooming seems to be gone while the Brazilian, trimmed and even the full bush seem to be where it’s at right now, as a matter fact, she commented that the bush seems to be coming back. So, in case you were wondering, that the latest in pubic hair fashion.
We also, took care of business including the dreaded Pap smear. I don’t know why, but I work myself up about them into a flat spin panic. Like I was sweaty and my heart was racing and then the crying started. I tell you this because apparently, I handled it much better than some women, although she might have just said that to make me feel better, and because no one talks about these things and how uncomfortable and unpleasant they can be both physically and mentally. Just indulge me for a second here – why is that men have a blood test for prostate cancer and women have to go through an uncomfortable invasive procedure to screen for cancer? [Full disclosure – I’ve been watching Call the Midwife again which really seems to shine a light on woman’s issues in their own way.]
So I did the grown up thing, even getting a tetanus booster while I was there and now, I should be good to go for the next three years, except for the mammogram and the trip to dermatology about a mole and who knows what else pops up… Seriously though – where’s my sticker?