Yes, You Can Attend Your OB/GYN Appointment During Menstruation
It is absolutely acceptable to have your OB/GYN appointment while menstruating, and you should not reschedule unless specifically instructed otherwise for certain procedures. 1
General Gynecologic Visits and Procedures
You can have an IUD placed whether you are menstruating or not, as long as it is reasonably certain you are not pregnant, and there is no best time in the menstrual cycle for IUD placement. 1
Scheduling IUD insertion can occur anytime during the menstrual cycle without compromising safety or effectiveness. 1
Most gynecologic examinations and procedures can proceed during menstruation, including screening for sexually transmitted infections and cervical cancer testing in most cases. 1, 2
Important Exception: Conventional Pap Smears
Conventional cytology Pap tests should be postponed if you are actively menstruating, and the test should be rescheduled at the earliest opportunity. 3
This is the primary reason you might need to reschedule a routine well-woman visit if cervical cancer screening with conventional cytology is planned. 3
However, liquid-based cytology may be less affected by menstrual blood, though specific guidance varies. 3
When Menstruation Does NOT Interfere
Sexual intercourse does not require any waiting period before Pap smear collection, as recent sexual activity does not interfere with test accuracy. 3
The presence of mucopurulent discharge should not delay the Pap test—it can be performed after careful removal of discharge with a saline-soaked cotton swab. 3
All necessary testing including screening for pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections, and most cervical cancer screening can be completed in one visit regardless of menstrual status. 2
Clinical Workflow Considerations
Administrative staff should inform patients that appointments can be scheduled anytime during the menstrual cycle for most procedures. 1
Patients should be advised to eat a light meal and drink water beforehand to prevent vasovagal reactions, particularly if procedures like IUD placement are planned. 2
The bimanual examination and cervical inspection can be performed during menstruation without compromising the quality of the examination. 2
Bottom Line for Patients
Do not cancel or reschedule your OB/GYN appointment simply because you are menstruating. The only exception is if you are specifically scheduled for a conventional Pap smear, in which case you should contact the office to discuss rescheduling. 3 For all other visits—including IUD placement, STI screening, routine examinations, and problem-focused visits—menstruation does not interfere with care. 1, 2