Rape Flashbacks

[Healing Reins]

So I had a gyro apt yesterday, had a huge flashback...so awkward anyway now I feel really exposed...I know I only have to see her once a year, but still I can't help but feel exposed.... :/

 

[JEKBreatheandBelieve]

I have to go to one of those appointments soon and I am really nervous because I didn't have memories of sexual abuse and rape so vividly. It's always been hard for me and now I can understand why. At least you can congratulate yourself on being brave and tell yourself you made it through the appointment. There are lots of people with or without trauma histories that wouldn't even go to that kind of appointment. I hope you can do something nice for yourself today to help comfort yourself and reward yourself for doing a hard thing.

 

[Friday]

My OB/Gyn hands out a little box chocolate truffles before each appointment to suck on with a little note that few things in life are completely "yucky" with good chocolate. I love this woman. I always forget about it, and it's not like chocolate erases very bad things, but sugar does help calm my own incessant effing meltdowns. Not as nicely as healthier/unhealthier things, but I can buy it in the shops. I have a 5lb block of Callebaut I've been breaking pieces off of and sucking for the past few months... And I don't even like chocolate (shhh).

She will also Rx an antianxiety med or muscle relaxer for anyone who talks with her in advance. Don't know how many other OB/Gyns have this policy... But it makes sense a lot would.

Cheers, HR. Job well done.

 

[joeylittle]

I know that feeling of spilling your secrets all over the examination room floor. But honestly - the much, much bigger deal (as people are saying) is something to celebrate - you went!

Next year, try making an appointment a week in advance of your exam appointment so you can talk to her about ways to help you avoid having that happen again. But until then, be proud of yourself, really. You went!!!