Nishmat's Women’s Health and HalachaIn memory of Chaya Mirel bat R' Avraham

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Going to a male gynecologist

5 September, 2006
Question:

Hi,
I'd like to know if I'm allowed to go to a male gynecologist.
I have already seen a female doctor but I didn't like her and a friend adviced me to go to a male doctor she knows and is apparently better qualified.
Thanks.


Answer:

Using a female physician avoids problems with tzniut (modesty) and yichud (being alone in a room with a man). However, your comfort and your confidence in the care you are receiving take precedence, and you may choose to go to a male doctor if he is a better doctor.

The problem of yichud can be solved either by bringing your mother, friend or husband to the appointment, or by having a nurse or secretary present in the room. If a nurse or secretary routinely enters the room without knocking, there is no yichud problem.

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