![]() Tell her it's important to answer truthfully, even though she might feel uncomfortable. Her answers can help the doctor decide which tests to run and what issues to discuss. Do you have any unusual vaginal discharge, or sores, itchiness, or discomfort in the vaginal area?.Are you having any problems with your period, such as pain or heavy bleeding?.Are you, or have you ever been, sexually active (meaning vaginal, oral, or anal sex)? If so, are you using birth control and STD protection?.This means she'll answer questions such as: The doctor will talk to your daughter about her That can help her feel at ease talking about any concerns in the future. Also, alone time lets her get to know the doctor. You want your daughter to be honest and not hold back information she might not share with you there. Whatever she decides, give her some time alone with the health care provider. When you go, ask your daughter if she would like you to be in the exam room with her. And don't hesitate to talk to a few health care providers before making a decision. Share the answers to these questions with your daughter. Who else will be in the examining room?.Will you see my daughter at each visit or will she see different providers?.Do you have experience with first-time patients and teens?.What is your approach toward discussing sexual activity?.Also, different states have different rules about confidentiality.) Most offices won't share the details of the visit with a parent unless the patient says it's OK, or if the doctor feels that the child is doing something harmful. What is your confidentiality policy? (This may affect how open your daughter is during the visit.If you like a specific hospital or medical office, see someone linked to it.Īsking these questions can help you choose a health care provider: Your pediatrician or family doctor might be able to recommend someone. Then, ask around to find a doctor who best fits your family's needs. Would she like to see the same person as you, or does she prefer to confide in someone who has no connection with you?.Would she like to stick with the pediatrician or family doctor she has seen before (if they provide women's health care), or see someone new?.You have probably made your daughter's health choices until now, but it's wise to involve her in this one.Īsk your daughter what type of health provider she would prefer: ![]() Nurse practitionerthat your daughter sees should be someone who takes the time to make her feel as comfortable as possible. How Should We Choose a Women's Health Care Provider? But a girl who has problems like heavy bleeding, painful periods, or unusual vaginal discharge might need a pelvic exam sooner. These are recommended starting at age 21 for healthy women. Most girls won't get an internal pelvic exam. (Genitals are the sexual or reproductive organs that are on the outside of the body.)Īlso, reassure your daughter that the actual physical exam doesn't take long at all. For others, the doctor might do a physical exam, which can include looking at the genitals. The doctor can diagnose and treat any problems, such as missed periods, and pelvic or stomach pain.įor some teens, the first visit may just be a talk with the doctor. She can learn about pregnancy prevention, STDs (sexually transmitted diseases), and healthy lifestyles. She'll get accurate information and confidential answers to questions about sex, sexuality, her changing body, and her periods. She may not get why she would need to go to the doctor when she feels fine.Įxplain that a well-woman visit provides: Your daughter might associate doctor visits with health problems. Talk about any questions or fears she might have.Help your daughter know what to expect.To help your daughter feel more comfortable about it: The thought of seeing a gynecologist or having a pelvic exam can make a girl feel nervous, embarrassed, or scared. Why Is the First Gynecology Visit Important? Often called well-woman visits, they can catch small issues before they become big ones. Doctors recommend yearly checkups that focus on the female reproductive system, starting between the ages of 13 and 15. As girls grow into teens, it's important that they get the right health care.
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