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 Can a doctor tell during your pelvic exam if you've had sex? Most of the time, a doctor will not be able to tell if someone has had sex just from a pelvic exam. But you should let your doctor know if you've had sex anyway. Why? Having sex puts a person at risk for getting a sexually transmitted disease (STD). When you tell your doctor you're having sex, he or she can look out for signs of infection. Treating STDs early is important not just for your health, but also for the health of your partner. Discovering an STD early can also help ensure that when you are ready to have children, you have a healthy pregnancy. Even if you don't think you have an STD, only a doctor can tell for sure. That's because a number of STDs may not cause symptoms in some people, even though they can still cause problems later on. Your doctor can give you advice about protecting yourself against STDs and also can discuss ways you can prevent pregnancy. You may feel nervous talking to your doctor about sex, but he or she can be one of the best resources you have. Gynecologists, family practitioners, pediatricians, and adolescent medicine specialists deal with questions about sex every day, so don't be ashamed or embarrassed to ask them anything. And if you're worried that your parents will find out, just tell your doctor about your concerns. What you discuss with your doctor about sex can stay between the two of you. For more information, check out these articles: Reviewed by: Larissa Hirsch, MD Have a question? Email us. Although we can't reply personally, you may see your question posted to this page in the future. If you're looking for medical advice, a diagnosis, or treatment, consult your doctor or other qualified medical professional. If this is an emergency, contact emergency services in your area. *Names have been changed to protect user privacy. |
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