Neuroatypical "Z"s in a Gynecologist's Office. Report Developed
- In a new opinion survey commissioned by Gedeon Richter Polska, one in four women aged 18-29 admitted that they notice or have been diagnosed with neuroatypical features, which may negatively impact the regularity of gynecological visits.
- When contacting a gynecologist, the most important thing for young women is a sense of physical and mental comfort, an empathetic, non-judgmental approach of the doctor, and clear and reliable information.
- Experts point out the need for changes in the approach to educating specialists, improving their soft skills and changing the organization of visits.
What are the needs of the youngest gynecologist patients? This was discussed at a press conference (October 7) opening the seventh edition of the "In Women's Interest" campaign, organized by Gedeon Richter Polska.
During the meeting, the results of a new report entitled "In Women's Business. Without Exception" were presented, based on a survey conducted among women aged 18-29. The findings were followed by recommendations for specialists caring for female patients, including those with neuroatypical features.
The study considered neuroatypicality, defined as various types of hypersensitivity, such as to sounds, smells, touch, colors , and selective mutism. One in four women surveyed admitted to noticing or being diagnosed with neurodivergent traits, such as ADHD and other autism spectrum disorders. Respondents most frequently cited hypersensitivity to sounds and smells, as well as ADHD.
Researchers noted that during a gynecological visit, women experience a range of emotions related to the examination and the interaction with the doctor, including stress and embarrassment. It was found that the most important aspects of a gynecological encounter for young women are a sense of physical and psychological comfort , an empathetic, nonjudgmental approach from the doctor, and clear, reliable health information. Are these needs being met? Not to the full extent, but there is still room for improvement.
The main sources of discomfort during a gynecological visit, as identified in the study, included the physician's touching and its indelicate/lack of sensitivity, as well as a lack of privacy and an uncomfortable position during the examination. These factors were more frequently cited by individuals with neuroatypical features.
As highlighted in the discussion, the problem is serious, as as many as four out of ten women diagnosed with or experiencing neuroatypical features postpone or delay visits to a gynecologist.
The solution? Changes in the approach to educating specialists, learning and improving soft skills, and changes in the organization of visits – as suggested by panel participants: Dr. Agnieszka Nalewczyńska , gynecologist and women's health specialist; Magdalena Chorzewska , psychologist and therapist; and Dr. Zofia Małkowicz , sociologist and social researcher.
– As a gynecologist, I must admit: we have a serious lesson to learn when it comes to improving the comfort of our patients in gynecological care – said Dr. Agnieszka Nalewczyńska .
"In defense of us specialists, I must add that during their education, no one teaches doctors empathy or gentleness in conversations with patients. We are not trained in soft skills, and this is a serious mistake. Statements made in some offices, such as 'let her take off her clothes' or 'that's just how you look', have become legendary. Such words should become a taboo! We see how important trust, good and friendly communication are to our patients . I would suggest supplementing the specialist education program with these aspects. At the same time, I strongly urge you: as doctors, let's try to be more attentive to our patients, listen to them, and treat them the way we would want to be treated ourselves or our loved ones. It's so much and so little at the same time," the doctor pointed out.
"Empathy is key," agreed Magdalena Chorzewska. "Ideally, patients could count on greater support from reception staff at gynecological clinics. Much unnecessary tension could be avoided if, at the appointment stage, someone warned the patient that the duration and timing of the appointment were approximate. Then, any delays wouldn't be a surprise. Perhaps the staff could offer patients stress balls or other materials that would help alleviate tension and stress?" she suggested.
Dr. Zofia Małkowicz said it would be great to receive "instructions on how to prepare for a gynecological visit" and to know where to find reliable information.
"In an era of rampant conspiracy theories and disinformation, reliable knowledge and debunking harmful yet popular myths are particularly important. In the study, women indicated that their most important source of information about intimate health is their gynecologist. It would be great if the doctor could recommend additional sources of information and recommended content to the patient. Another aspect: difficult information provided by the doctor during a visit is easily forgotten. It would be great if the doctor could write down the most important information on paper and perhaps explain or draw anything unclear," the sociologist pointed out.
The specialists also pointed out how important it is for the patient not to be afraid to ask the doctor questions.
"There are no stupid questions or stupid expectations. We're not here to judge our patients, but to help them based on medical knowledge—and in line with their expectations. For example, if a patient asks me about so-called natural contraceptive methods, my role is to explain all the aspects and risks associated with each method, but above all, to help the patient choose a form of gynecological care that aligns with her expectations (not my own views)," emphasized Dr. Agnieszka Nalewczyńska .
The panelists agreed that changes in the organization of care and the operation of gynecological offices are important. Providing patients with comfortable conditions for changing and preparing for the examination is crucial, as is ensuring that no one else can enter the office during the examination. Young women appreciate small conveniences, such as the provision of various hygiene products in the office or the warming of ultrasound gel before the examination.
Even the smallest change can make a significant difference in improving patient comfort, especially for those with particular sensitivity and neuroatypical features. For this group of women, seemingly minor changes can be crucial to ensuring regular gynecological visits.
The awareness campaign "In Women's Interest" was initiated and is implemented by Gedeon Richter.
– Our campaign “In Women’s Interest” aims to encourage all Polish women to regularly visit a gynecologist and to spread knowledge about exercising their right to equal access to basic health services, including gynecological and obstetrics – regardless of age, financial status or place of residence – says Aneta Grzegorzewska , Director of Corporate Affairs and External Relations at Gedeon Richter Polska.
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