Visiting the gynecologist is an important part of the aging process for young women. Your doctor will give you vital information on how to stay as healthy as possible as well as giving you an overall checkup.
There are three main reasons that parents should take their young girls to a gynecologist.
- Information: During your visit, you’ll learn about your body and how to maintain a healthy lifestyle whether you’re sexually active or not.
- Prevention: Your doctor will look for signs of underlying issues that could affect you later in life.
- Treatment: If you’re experiencing problems with your menstrual cycle, pain, or reproductive problems, your OB/GYN can look into why the problem is occurring and find a treatment.
A gynecology appointment can be nerve-racking for young girls who don’t know exactly what to expect. Being nervous is completely normal. However, once your visit is over, you’ll likely be wondering what all the fuss was about.
When Should You Schedule Your First Appointment?
Typically, a first appointment is recommended by OB/GYNs for girls between the ages of 13 and 15. This gives the doctor plenty of time to answer questions regarding sexual health, menstruation, and other concerns confidentially.
What to Expect
At the beginning of your first gynecology exam, your doctor will sit down with you and just talk. It’s important to be open and honest when speaking to your gynecologist so that they can give you the best medical care possible.
Unless your OB/GYN feels it is vital, a pelvic exam will not be part of your first gynecology exam. Generally, pelvic exams are recommended starting at the age of 21.
They will ask you questions regarding your health. Among others, some items you can expect to be brought up include:
- Your menstrual cycle
- Sexual activity (Including oral, vaginal, and anal sex)
- Acne
- Weight
- Sexuality
- Birth control
- STIs and STDs (sexually transmitted infections and sexually transmitted diseases)
- Emotional ups and downs
If you’re concerned about confidentiality, ask your doctor beforehand. In most cases, everything you disclose can be kept between you and your doctor.
Remember, if you feel uncomfortable during any portion of your gynecological visit, you can ask for a nurse or family member to be present as well.
What to Talk About During Your Appointment
Remember that your appointment gives you a safe place to talk about anything and everything regarding both your physical and emotional state. Use this opportunity to speak confidentially to your GYN for accurate answers.
Before going to your appointment, think of a list of questions you’d like to ask. Your GYN has heard it all, so if something is concerning you, don’t let your embarrassment or nervousness get in the way of your wellbeing.
Book a GYN Appointment Today
Parents and young women should go into appointments with as much knowledge as possible. Your first gynecology appointment doesn’t have to be scary if you know what to expect.
Call to schedule an appointment with one of our OB/GYNs today by calling 770.720.7733 or simply schedule an appointment online. Feel free to ask any questions regarding your first visitation beforehand so you can be as prepared as possible.
