Teen Years

During young adolescence and their teen years, girls experience significant physiologic changes, which can make understanding their bodies and the things they do very difficult. Because of this, education is critical. We look at it as an opportunity to start girls off on the right foot in terms of taking care of themselves.

To give our young patients a good start, we like to talk to them about anatomy and physiology. We also discuss menstruation, pap smears: why they are done and what takes place during one, sexually transmitted infections such as HPV and how to avoid getting those, contraceptives, pregnancy and many other areas. We take the time to answer all my patient’s questions. And while we always encourage girls to discuss their concerns and questions with their mothers, my office is committed to maintaining our patients’ rights to privacy.

We also believe it's important to get to know what teens are thinking, what their goals are, what their level of self-esteem is and how much they know about smoking, drinking, and weight. All this lets them know that we are concerned with more than just giving them a pelvic exam — we want to help them to be successful in life. And that is usually easier for teens when they delay childbearing, avoid STIs, and stay healthy.

First visit?

Many people ask us when we think a girl should come in for her first gynecologic visit. The answer is: it depends. However, girls should know that many times their first visit may not require an exam, especially if they are younger than 16.

Menstruation/periods

Beginning to menstruate is part of normal development. When a girl’s period first starts, it can be normal to have an irregular menstrual cycle. For most girls this is not a problem, but for others — perhaps due to school, sports, and other activities — irregular periods can be quite disruptive. Sometimes it is necessary for a girl who is not sexually active to take birth control pills to help regulate her cycle.

Pap smears/cervical exams

Pap smears are a screening test for cervical dysplasia, the precursor to cervical cancer. Pap smears are indicated for sexually active girls and all women 21 or older.

Sexually transmitted infections

Once called sexually transmitted diseases or STDs, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can be eliminated with proper treatment. Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most widely known STI at present. Questions about getting the Gardasil vaccine (which can protect young girls and teens from HPV) provides a great reason for adolescents to come talk to us.

Contraceptives/birth control

When it comes to birth control, we always discuss available options with girls (and their mothers if the patient is okay with this), making sure they understand the benefits and risks of each. Of course, we adamantly encourage use of condoms to prevent STIs.

Pregnancy

We understand the complex issues involved in teen pregnancy, and are prepared to address these issues in a comforting way. Pregnant teens receive the very best care from our providers and staff.