Dear Ann Landers,
y steady boyfriend just gave me my engagement ring. This means I must go to a doctor for a premarital physical examination. I don't mind going to a doctor to have my throat painted or to get a flu shot, but the thought of a physical examination by a man makes me sick to my stomach. Please, Ann, don't tell me I'm afraid of men and to get over my prudishness before I marry or I will be in trouble. The truth is, my boyfriend and I have already done things you don't approve of-so it isn't that. And don't sug-gest a woman doctor. There isn't one in this town. I want to overcome this terrible feeling, because I'll be faced with it again when I have children. Can you help me?-The Shakes

Dear Shakes,
I don't know what you think you have that is so different, but don't feel hurt if the doctor doesn't notice. A nurse will probably be present during the examination and you will be draped in sheets and it won't be half as bad as you imagine. Get going.