Adolescent GYN Care
Adolescent GYN care is an important way for adolescent girls to learn about GYN health guidelines as well as preventative health care in a professional and caring environment.
When Should Adolescent GYN Care Begin?
The first adolescent GYN care visit should take place between the ages of 13 and 15. However if there are any problems with puberty before that age, adolescent girls can certainly begin GYN care earlier.
What Can an Adolescent Girl Expect from her First GYN Care visit?
Typically, the physician will provide one-on-one care in a comfortable atmosphere. Adolescent girls often have questions and concerns about their changing bodies and physicians want to create a physician-patient relationship that will help adolescent girls feel comfortable. A pelvic exam is usually not part of the initial adolescent GYN care visit.
What Topics might be discussed during the Initial Adolescent GYN Care Visit?
During the initial adolescent GYN care appointment, adolescent girls can expect to learn about menstruation, fertility and hygiene. Contraceptives and sexually transmitted infections may also be discussed.
Screenings for risky behavior such as alcohol or drug use might be part of the initial adolescent GYN care appointment, as well as screening for eating disorders, weight disorders, anxiety, depression, physical, sexual or emotional abuse.
Adolescent GYN Symptoms that Your GYN should know about:
- Menstrual irregularities
- Heavy bleeding
- Missed periods
- Menstrual cramps
- Delayed first period
- Pelvic pain
- Vaginal and pelvic infections
- Uneven breast growth
- Breast lumps
- Vaginal discharge
The adolescent GYN care from the physician should be a positive and comfortable experience for the adolescent because it sets the stage for a lifetime of good GYN healthcare.