The Importance of Your Daughter’s First Gynecological Exam

Girls need to have the proper medical care when they head into their teenage years. The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology suggests that young girls see a gynecologist between the ages of 13 and 15. If they are not sexually active during this time, then you can wait until you know they are sexually active.

For the majority of girls, a pelvic exam will not be done during her first exam unless she has experienced abnormal bleeding, periods that hurt or vaginal secretions. Many times, the idea of seeing a gynecologist for the first time can make a young girl embarrassed, scared or nervous. It is important that you talk with your daughter ahead of time and explain what the visit is for, what will likely take place during the visit as well as answering any questions she may have.

You will need to explain to your daughter the main reasons for going to the doctor. Explain to her that it will provide her with valuable information on sex, changes in her body, sexuality and her period. She will also learn about topics such as pregnancy prevention, STD’s and lifestyle changes she made need to do. Also, treatments may need to be looked into if she misses her periods or has painful periods.

When it comes to selecting a gynecologist for your daughter, it is important that she have a major part in the decision making process. She needs to be comfortable with the person she is seeing. You first need to ask her if she would prefer male or female and it she wants someone that is younger or older. Your family physician may be able to refer you to someone based on your daughter’s preferences.

You should also be comfortable with the person your daughter is seeing as well. After all, you need to be able to trust this specialist with your daughter. You want to be sure the gynecologist is board certified. Also you want to ask what their approach is to talking to teen girls about sex and other issues related to teen girls. You may have to talk with a few gynecologists before you and your daughter can agree on someone.


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