Taking a visit to the doctor can often be a daunting task for some, especially when it concerns areas of the body that many of us may be embarrassed to discuss. With this in mind, we surveyed 1,000 UK residents to find out the UK’s approach to embarrassing doctor visits and the barriers to seeking medical care, particularly for gynecological and urological concerns.
Why Do People Avoid Embarrassing Doctor Visits?
There are many reasons why you may avoid seeking medical help from fear of judgement to discomfort around physical exams and even a lack of knowledge around what an appointment might entail.
Our research shows that over half (52%) of the UK frequently avoid or delay seeking medical treatment out of embarrassment regarding the body part involved.
The findings also show that almost one in ten (9%) would be unlikely to seek medical help if it required them showing their genitals to a doctor. A further 15% admit to frequently avoiding or delaying seeking medical treatment due to embarrassment about the body part affected.
Whether delaying or avoiding treatment altogether, the research highlights UK patients levels of discomfort around what they feel are embarrassing medical issues. However, it is vital that you attend medical appointments, whether it’s a routine checkup, screening or specialist referral.
Gynaecology Referral – What to Expect
Our survey also explored the varying attitudes between men and women when it comes to seeking medical help for intimate issues.
11% of women are unlikely to seek any medical attention if they had to show a doctor their genitals compared to 8% of men and almost two thirds (61%) of women have delayed or avoided treatment due to embarrassment of the body part in question.
The Department for Health and Social Care’s 2021 study shows that more than four in five (84%) of women felt they were not listened to by healthcare professionals. The Women’s Health survey also underscores a lack of information around women’s health with less than one in five having enough information on menstrual wellbeing, one in seven on gynaecological cancers and 8% on gynaecological conditions.
During a gynecology referral or appointment, your doctor will discuss your symptoms as well as your medical history and they may ask you questions around your menstrual cycle. This will give them a clearer picture before a physical examination, which may include internal and external examinations to identify the issue.
What Happens at a Urology Appointment?
According to our research, 44% of men delayed or avoided treatment due to embarrassment and one in twelve men (8%) would be unlikely to seek medical help if it required showing their genitals to a doctor. This reluctance to seek medical help may stem from embarrassment around sensitive topics like erectile dysfunction, prostate issues or incontinence.
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men within the UK, with more than 50,000 diagnoses every year according to the charity Prostate Cancer UK. Additionally, erectile dysfunction impacts around one in five UK men, highlighting that while it may be difficult to seek help for such issues, you are not alone and it is crucial to attend regular screenings and urology referrals in order to treat your concerns.
During a urology appointment a doctor may discuss your medical history before taking routine blood or urine samples to test and some issues may require internal and external physical exams.
How to Talk to Your Doctor If You’re Feeling Embarrassed
Our research highlights the importance of combatting embarrassment when it comes to seeking medical help for sensitive issues. From the menopause to prostate cancer, endometriosis to UTIs, there is no problem too big or small that your doctor cannot provide you with support for.
However, if you are putting off that important doctor’s visit from embarrassment, here are some practical tips for speaking to your doctor.
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Prepare beforehand
Writing down your symptoms, questions and concerns before attending your appointment will help combat any nerves you’re feeling on the day. This will help the doctor get a clear picture of your condition and may help to answer their questions on your medical history.
2. Use medical terms
Often our embarrassment comes from using terms which feel humorous or personal so it may help to stick to medical terms for your area of concern to remove these feelings.
3. Remember doctors have seen it all
While your concerns and reluctance are completely normal, it’s helpful to remember that millions of people are affected by the very same issues and medical professionals are experienced in dealing with any ailments which you may feel uncomfortable with.
Breaking the Stigma Around Embarrassing Doctor Visits
Delaying or avoiding medical appointments due to embarrassment is more common than you might think, but it’s important to remember that doctors are there to help, not judge. Whether it’s a routine check-up, a gynaecology or urology referral, or a conversation about an issue you find difficult to discuss, seeking medical advice sooner rather than later can make all the difference.
Conditions like endometriosis, UTIs, prostate issues, and even certain cancers can worsen over time if left untreated. Long NHS wait times can already cause delays in diagnosis, so putting off an appointment due to discomfort only adds to the risk.
Delaying or avoiding medical appointments due to embarrassment can result in missed or delayed diagnoses, sometimes leading to serious consequences. If you believe you’ve experienced inadequate care or a missed diagnosis, you may have grounds for a gynaecology claim or urology claim to seek justice for medical negligence.
If you’re ever unsure about a diagnosis or treatment plan, remember that you have the right to seek a second opinion. Feeling confident in your healthcare decisions is essential, and speaking up about concerns can lead to better outcomes.
The key takeaway? Your health is far more important than embarrassment. Doctors have seen it all, and no issue is too small or too awkward to discuss. Prioritising your well-being today could prevent serious health complications in the future.