The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) advises all girls to have their first gynecology appointment at age 13-15. At Nova Women’s Health, board-certified gynecologist Anju Nayar, MD, FACOG, takes a gentle and supportive approach with her adolescent gynecology patients. For adolescent gynecology that you can feel confident about, call the North Reading, Massachusetts, office or book an appointment online today.
Adolescent gynecology is women’s health care for young women in their teenage years. According to the World Health Organization, adolescence ends at age 19. After that time, women are considered adults and transition to women’s health care.
Adolescent gynecology is unique because it recognizes that young women have different questions, concerns, and needs than older women. At Nova Women’s Health, adolescent gynecology is always personalized for young women’s unique needs.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends scheduling a first gynecology appointment at age 13-15. This first appointment is a good way to establish a relationship with Nova Women’s Health and gives your daughter a resource they can depend upon as they grow up.
Adolescent gynecology adapts to the needs of the patient. In the first appointment, the focus is generally on getting to know the providers. Often, appointments include an external pelvic exam during adolescence but not an internal one.
Girls will generally start having internal pelvic exams once they reach adulthood. However, if girls have specific problems like severe period pain or abnormal bleeding, they may need an internal pelvic exam for diagnostic reasons.
Every adolescent gynecology appointment includes the care that young women need at that particular stage in their life. Some of the topics that are covered during these exams include:
In general, adolescent gynecology focuses on education. But, if young women need help with any type of reproductive health issues, Nova Women’s Health is there to support them.
ACOG recommends Pap smears starting from age 21, so adolescent gynecology doesn’t normally include cervical cancer or human papillomavirus (HPV) screening.
However, it’s generally recommended that young women have the HPV vaccine during their adolescent gynecology appointments if they didn’t already have it through their pediatrician at age 11-12.
At Nova Women’s Health, adolescent gynecology is attuned to the needs of young women who might feel shy or anxious about their first visit with an OB/GYN. The experienced providers strive to create a welcoming and supportive atmosphere where teens can feel comfortable. Call the office or book an appointment online now.