First Gynecologic Exam

Adolescent girls are growing up faster and faster and need questions answered earlier than in previous years. Our providers can help with their choices in health care. Both of our gynecologists and our APRN have the clinical skills necessary to perform the appropriate assessments.

Making a young woman’s first gynecologic exam a positive experience will influence future decisions in her health care. Young women frequently feel more at ease with female providers.  Our providers will be conversational and will avoid being critical or judgmental, ensuring a non-threatening environment.

When do adolescents need to be seen?

The recommended age for the first pelvic exam is 21.  However, a pelvic exam should be done earlier if she is sexually active. An adolescent girl’s first pelvic exam may be met with anxiety. We seek to make her comfortable and create an atmosphere of trust . This is the best time to give information and set a good example for her health care.

In addition to a pelvic exam, we will address many issues with adolescents during this visit including sensitive issues and risky behaviors such as substance abuse, smoking, domestic abuse, sexual abuse, STIs and contraception. Questions are both welcomed and encouraged. Written information will be made available.

What happens during the first visit?

The first visit will start with getting to know each other. We will discuss issues of privacy and confidentiality. It is important that the adolescent has someone to confide in and we encourage parents to trust us to be that someone for their child.

Certain topics may be discussed in the first visit or at the next follow up, if needed.

The adolescent will be given the choice of having their parent present during the exam.

One important aspect of the exam is offering the use of a mirror in order for young women to view the private parts of their body and ask any questions they might have.

After the exam...

After the exam is complete, the provider will discuss the results of the exam, diagnosis and management plan with the patient and her parents (if desired).

Medical Disclaimer: The information provided on the Gynecology & Infertility Associates website should be relied upon for medical education purposes only. It is not intended to replace the independent judgment of a health care provider. The appropriateness of a course of treatment for a patient may vary from the medical information provided herein due to individual conditions and/or complications.