Stuff Dutch People Like #2: straightforward gynecology 17/01/2009
Posted by dlatman in Amsterdam, Dutch, europe, u.s., women.Tags: body, gynecology
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In the US we like to have our clear separation between patient and doctor: “I will leave the room now while you change,” says the white-coated professional, and after closing the door we cover up in a flimsy paper gown that provides some illusion, however pathetic, of privacy and decency. Rooms are well-lit by harsh fluorescent bulbs and smell of antiseptic, much like a laboratory. Not so in the Netherlands.
The two times I have visited the “lady doctors” here, both offices seemed in disarray, as if the doctor had no time to clean, dust or mop. (Reminding me that Americans can be preoccupied, at times verging on obsessed, with cleanliness.) The doctors remained in the room while I undressed, and had me hop on the table uncovered. Then they stayed in the room while I dressed again.
The actual procedures seem similar, but the etiquette surrounding them is different.
Most Dutch women give birth at home, so perhaps they have no need for the public/private separation we Americans usually maintain with our health care providers. Maybe to them, the body is nothing to be ashamed about.
It’s a noble concept, but somewhat disconcerting in practice to the foreigner, this one at least.
Photo by amy_b at Flickr.
hmm, I guess there are some things I DO like about the U.S.!
Something I forgot to mention, related to the casual atmosphere of the doctor’s office, is that very little paperwork is involved. You don’t need to fill out long histories or (much) insurance information.
They really trust you here and are not litigious, as in the States.
For example, one time I had some lab tests done and the doctor gave me the full vials, a plastic envelope, and told me where the nearest mail box was to send them to the lab. Can you imagine that happening in the US?
Hello!
I found this blog while reading another article of yours on the Expatica website.
I am not American but Argentinian – still, I’ve also felt disconcerted when visiting the “lady’s doctors” here in the Netherlands! They don’t normally provide you with the disposable gown so basically, once you’re out of your clothes you have to valiantly walk across the office and climb onto the table for “inspection”…
After the first time though, I just took the precaution of wearing a skirt to my appointments so that I can get rid of my underwear and and at least keep the skirt on and then roll it up once on the table…
Funny, eh? Though not “funny hahaha” though….