I am not sure that's the right sub to ask this but I don't know where else to post so, here goes.

I am turning 25 this year which means I am due for my first pap smear. It will be my first time ever at the OBGYN - I've never had to go before and to be honest, I wasn't super keen on going to an appointment that wasn't absolutely necessary. I am pretty anxious about that first appointment and was wondering if you had some tips to help it go smoothly.

Should I go for a male or female doctor? Why? Should I shave beforehand? Should I schedule it before, during or after my period? How do you prepare for gyno appointments and how do they typically go?

Thank you for your advice!