There's no need to shave. A doctor should never judge you on the state of your grooming. (Hell, half the time I don't shave my legs before I go.) Wear thick socks, cause your feet will get cold while you're waiting. Wear clothes that are easy to get on and off because they don't give you much time to disrobe (usually) and put on the gown. Opening goes in the back. You'll get a breast exam, a pelvic exam that involves cotton swabs and then there will be a manual check - where the doctor inserts one or two fingers inside and then presses down on your tummy to feel for cysts or any other abnormalities.

The one thing that is most important - be honest. If you have a symptom, no matter how minute it may seem, tell them. You'd be surprised what one little fact can change when it comes to diagnosing issues.

Good luck! Don't be nervous. You're just another patient in a line of a thousand.

It's not a big deal. They will be done before you know it! Just be honest and I second the warm socks! Brrrr you don't have to shave! They see everything and it doesn't matter. Good luck.

I'm overweight and au naturale, and they don't give a second glance or thought about it - you are not the only woman in existence they ever looked at. Frequently they're so business about it that you don't even have the chance to feel self-conscious. It's pretty much like going to the ENT or your general practitioner.

Thirded on the warm socks!

And breathe deep and relax. You need to be relaxed so they can examine your insides (makes it much easier for everyone). It doesn't take very long just like Stormy had outlined above.

Oh, final piece of advice - know when your last period was, as well as average duration and average days between. That helps more than you will ever know.

Thanks so much, I'm sure you're right, the gyno has seen so many mine probably won't stand out! And for the last....2? years, I've been keeping track, because I've had issues before. I'm feeling a little more at ease, again thanks

everyone has really good advice. But also, dont be afraid to ask questions! The doctor will likely explain to you what they are doing before doing it, but if you have anything to ask about during the exam they're always quite helpful. I would suggest getting an HIV/STD test, which just involves minimal blood work they should be able to do in office.
The pelvic exam may be a little uncomfortable - personally when i get paps done, i feel something thats comparable to a light pinch.

All I usually do is wash up before I go to make sure I'm fresh. I feel like it's common courtesy. lol