You have probably made your daughter's health choices until now, but it's wise to involve her in this one.Īsk your daughter what type of health provider she would prefer: Nurse practitionerthat your daughter sees should be someone who takes the time to make her feel as comfortable as possible. How Should We Choose a Women's Health Care Provider? But a girl who has problems like heavy bleeding, painful periods, or unusual vaginal discharge might need a pelvic exam sooner. These are recommended starting at age 21 for healthy women. Most girls won't get an internal pelvic exam.
(Genitals are the sexual or reproductive organs that are on the outside of the body.)Īlso, reassure your daughter that the actual physical exam doesn't take long at all. For others, the doctor might do a physical exam, which can include looking at the genitals. The doctor can diagnose and treat any problems, such as missed periods, and pelvic or stomach pain.įor some teens, the first visit may just be a talk with the doctor. She can learn about pregnancy prevention, STDs (sexually transmitted diseases), and healthy lifestyles. She'll get accurate information and confidential answers to questions about sex, sexuality, her changing body, and her periods. She may not get why she would need to go to the doctor when she feels fine.Įxplain that a well-woman visit provides: Your daughter might associate doctor visits with health problems. Talk about any questions or fears she might have.Help your daughter know what to expect.
To help your daughter feel more comfortable about it: The thought of seeing a gynecologist or having a pelvic exam can make a girl feel nervous, embarrassed, or scared. Why Is the First Gynecology Visit Important? Often called well-woman visits, they can catch small issues before they become big ones. Doctors recommend yearly checkups that focus on the female reproductive system, starting between the ages of 13 and 15. As girls grow into teens, it's important that they get the right health care.
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