Regular gynecological exams are crucial to the overall health of women. A frequent question, however, is at what age girls should begin seeing a gynecologist. Gynecologists stress the key is ensuring teenage girls are healthy both physically and emotionally as their bodies begin to change.
At Stark Women’s Center, annual gynecological exams are recommended for women of all ages. For girls, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends first seeing a gynecologist between 13 and 15 years of age, whether or not the young woman has begun her menstrual cycle. This first appointment will typically focus on education and comfort with the patient’s changing body and will generally not include a pelvic exam.
Teens and young women may have questions
A first visit will usually address various topics that are of concern to teens and young women.
- Development and changes she may be experiencing
- Questions about the reproductive system
- Sexual intercourse and preventing sexually transmitted diseases
- Options for birth control
- Benefits of the HPV vaccination
- Developing healthy habits, including weight, nutrition, smoking and alcohol consumption
Stark women’s provides complete care
Beginning at age 21, women should have an annual pelvic exam, including a pap smear. Your annual ensures regular screenings for such conditions as cervical cancer, breast cancer and HPV, all of which frequently have no symptoms but, if caught early, can be effectively treated.
From the teen years through post-childbearing years and aging, your gynecologist will continue to address the changing health needs that are unique to women. Consider the following issues for which your doctor can provide information and peace of mind.
- Birth control
- Fertility questions
- Menstrual problems and pelvic pain
- Vaginal infections
- STI concerns and testing
- Breast changes
- Menopause
- Bone health and osteoporosis
- Diet and exercise counseling
Every woman is different
A woman’s health needs are not one size fits all. From choosing the best time to start a family to when a woman may begin experiencing menopausal symptoms, women and girls will require different approaches to their care so it is important to recognize when a doctor should be consulted regardless of age or sexual activity.
At any age, if you experience any of the following, you should see a gynecologist right away:
- Vaginal bleeding that lasts more than 10 days
- Unexplained abdominal pain
- Pain in the vulva area
- No menstruation by age 15
- Vaginal discharge that causes odor, itching or burning
- Severe menstrual cramping
- Missed periods, especially if you are sexually active
At Stark Women’s, many of our doctors are specialists who can focus on the unique needs and concerns of each individual patient. Using a team approach, we are equipped to address any issue or concern quickly and thoroughly.
Contact our offices for an appointment with any of our doctors.