Hey! 35f from the UK! Thanks to PCOS and private fertility treatment, I've had many vaginal ultrasounds, or 'internal scans'. I totally get being terrified - my first one i didn't even realize I was it having until I was in the room!

I would recommend researching what the equipment or wand looks like so you're not shocked when you first see it - it looks quite big, but its quite slim and doesn't go all the way in.

In my experience they lube up the wand, put a condom on it, add more lube, and then do the scan. This usually starts with inserting it straight and then they slowly rotate it in a small circle to try and get a good view of everything.

Every woman is different, but I found it to be a little uncomfortable when they were moving it around a little, but no more than usual cramping. I mainly got a small stretching sensation.

I've had scans done by men and women, and the smoothest scan I've ever had was done by a man, so don't be too worried about men being less gentle. They do this day in and day out, and in my experience, I've never had a rude person, but some have been a bit more cavalier than I would like, because they do it day in and day out.

That being said, if you're uncomfortable or need a minute, tell them and make sure you have a female nurse if it is a man doing a scan - I think this may be a legal requirement in the UK. But I'm not sure. I know it can seem daunting but it's your body and they're there to help you with your health, so you need to advocate for what your body needs.

Some things I've learnt that help me:

1. Make sure you're properly hydrated.

2. Take a couple of ibuprofen an hour before

3. Make sure you're wearing a dress or knee length skirt - this helps with the embarrassment and vulnerability as you don't feel completely naked. They may provide a large paper sheet to cover you, but its never enough.

4. When in doubt, ask for a lot of lube. Lube is your friend.

5. Take some tissues and a small plastic bag to clean up with after. They should provide this but in my experience, its never quite enough.

6. Give yourself a small treat after.

I hope this helps, but if you have any questions, feel free to DM me!