According to OB-GYN Montgomery County Dr. Rania Ibrahim, your daughter’s first gynecologic visit will give her an opportunity to develop a relationship and ease any anxiety, so that if problems occur in the future she will have someone she can talk to freely. So while the adolescent patient has a right to confidentiality in her health care, open communication between the patient, parent and provider is best.
Adolescent women should have their first well-woman visit when they are between the ages of 13 and 15. This visit is intended to promote health, provide education and assist in prevention of health problems that are common to teenagers.
Your OB-GYN Montgomery County will discuss normal puberty development, review menstrual cycle issues, provide education regarding vaccines and review healthy eating and exercise. In addition, she will provide information regarding pregnancy and sexually transmitted disease prevention, and assess for use of tobacco, alcohol or drugs. Most girls do not need a pelvic examination at this time. The current recommendation for a first pelvic examination and Pap smear is age 21.
The menstrual cycle is a normal part of life but, in some cases, it can create problems. Periods that occur too close together, last too long or are too heavy can result in low iron levels. They can also be very painful and be accompanied by severe nausea, vomiting or headaches. If your daughter is missing school, sports or activities because of her period, she should be seen by her OB-GYN Montgomery County to address these issues.
Childhood and adolescent obesity rates are on the rise. Your OB-GYN can help your daughter determine her healthy weight and put in place a plan to achieve and maintain that weight through healthy eating and daily exercise. Also, eating disorders can occur at this age. Severe weight loss or weight gain can affect your daughter’s hormonal levels and cause menstrual cycle irregularities and vitamin deficiencies.
The first visit with your OB-GYN Montgomery County is also an important time to review normal development and reassure young women that although they may be different than their peers, that difference can be very normal.
There are many other concerns for adolescent girls that can be helped by talking to a gynecologist including acne, mood changes, body art, plastic surgery, sexual orientation, violence and rape. Some gynecologists are more comfortable with teens and your OB-GYN Montgomery County is more prepared than others to deal with concerns specific to this age group.
If the time has come for your daughter’s first gynecological exam, call the office of OB-GYN Montgomery County Dr. Rania Ibrahim today to schedule an appointment.