My Doctor Is a Different Gender. What Do I Do?

I Have a Doctor Who's Not My Gender and I Feel Uncomfortable When They Have to Look at My Body or Touch Me. What Do I Do?

Little kids often run around naked and think nothing of it. But as you get older, you get more aware of your body and have an increased need for privacy. So it can feel strange to take off your clothes at the doctor's office. But your doctor does need to examine you to make sure you are healthy.

To make you more comfortable, you can ask that a parent come into the exam room with you. Or, if you prefer, you could ask that a nurse come into the room, so you're not alone with the doctor. You can also ask for a gown — a thin robe that ties. Most doctor offices have these available for patients.

It's important to have a doctor you feel comfortable with. If these tips don't help, ask your parent about finding you a new doctor — if you're a girl, maybe you'd prefer a female doctor or nurse practitioner, and if you're a guy, maybe you'd like to see a male doctor or nurse practitioner. Your health depends on your doctor getting to know parts of you that you think of as private. You need to feel comfortable during an exam, and know that you can ask your doctor about anything, no matter how personal. Getting care from someone you connect with really is better for your health!