As young girls age and grow into teenagers, preparing them for their first gynecological exam can be a daunting task for parents. Your daughter may not understand why she has to go to the doctor when she feels perfectly fine, so communication is essential when it’s time to sit down and discuss the first visit. Here at Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, we place a heavy importance on starting young women off on the right track in regards to their health.
Timing is Everything
It’s very important to listen to clues that will help you determine when your daughter should schedule her first gynecological exam. If your daughter is experiencing heavy or painful periods, is sexually active or has questions that you aren’t quite sure how to answer, scheduling an appointment will introduce her to the important role a gynecologist plays in a woman’s overall health.
Communication is Key
When you’ve broached the subject of scheduling an exam, communication is important to maintaining trust. Educating your daughter on what to expect during the visit can help calm nerves and ease her mind. Helping her prepare to answer questions the doctor might ask will take some of the fear of the unknown out of the appointment. Types of questions the doctor might ask are:
- When was your last period?
- Are you sexually active?
- If so, are you using birth control?
- Are you with one or multiple partners?
- Do you have any problems with your period such as pain or discharge?
- Is there any chance you could be pregnant?
Encourage your daughter to answer honestly, as everything she shares with her doctor is personal and confidential, and her doctor will be able to give her the best care the more information he or she has.
After the Appointment
Once the appointment is over, talk with your daughter about it. It is important that your daughter feels she is in a safe, trusting environment. Once she’s had her first visit, help your daughter make annual appointments to keep her on a happy, healthy track. To contact us for an appointment at our Canton or Woodstock offices, please call 770.720.7733 or schedule an appointment online.
