I've always wondered what state I'm supposed to be in when I arrive for an exam. Should I be freshly washed, shaved, perfumed and moisturized? Will she refuse to give me an exam if I haven't shaved my legs all winter? Can my doctor still get accurate exam results if I haven't showered in a few days (OK I admit it, I sometimes go days without showering...)? Apparently, Dr. Wu really doesn't care about any of that.

Q: How can I prepare for an exam? Do I need to shower right before I come in?

A: (laughs) No! I usually encourage patients to come when they're not having their period. Occasionally they'll schedule a visit and it will fall when they are having their period.

We are able to do pap smears then as long as the flow isn't too heavy, but some patients just feel uncomfortable about having an exam during their period. So, all in all, it's better to do it when you're not having your period.