Questions Your Teen Can (And Should) Ask at Their Gynecology Visits

Teens develop at their own pace and experience puberty differently. Regular gynecology visits are necessary to monitor their development and to answer important questions about their reproductive and gynecological health.

Gynecology care is an essential part of your teen’s healthcare. Here’s what you need to know about when your teen should go to the gynecologist for their first visit, what to ask, and what to expect from a typical gynecology appointment.

At Markidan Gynecology and Women’s Health, our gynecologist, Dr. Yana Markidan, and our team offer a range of gynecology, women’s health, and teen counseling services at our office in Princeton, New Jersey.

When should your teen see a gynecologist for the first time?

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that most girls have their first gynecology exam between the ages of 13 and 15, depending on their individual circumstances and development. Generally, most girls get their first period between the ages of 10 and 16, but it varies from person to person.

Even if your daughter hasn’t started menstruating by age 13, gynecology appointments are as important as primary care visits and allow young women to learn about their reproductive health and build a relationship with a trusted OB/GYN.

While you don’t have to wait until the first period to schedule the first gynecology appointment, your teen should see a gynecologist if she hasn’t started menstruating by age 15.

You should schedule an appointment if your teen is experiencing painful or abnormally heavy periods or has other symptoms like severe acne or excessive hair growth. You should also schedule an appointment if your teen is experiencing pelvic pain or is sexually active.

Pelvic exams are usually not performed at the first gynecology appointment unless necessary.

Questions Your Teen Can (And Should) Ask at Their Gynecology Visits

A gynecology visit is the perfect opportunity to raise concerns or questions your teen may have about menstruation and sexual and reproductive health in a safe, comfortable, and supportive environment.

Some questions your teen should ask may include:

How to manage period symptoms like cramps
Recommendations for menstrual products
What is normal in terms of period length and symptoms
Questions about sexual health and sexuality
What are the symptoms of conditions like endometriosis and PCOS?
How to stay active and participate in sports during periods
How to manage stress/anxiety/depression
STI/STD prevention and treatment
Healthy diet and lifestyle guidance

These are just general guidelines regarding what your teenager can discuss at their gynecology appointment. They should feel encouraged to ask any questions and share concerns about their health and well-being.

Establishing a trusting and supportive relationship with our team is important to get accurate and reliable information about reproductive and sexual health.

For more information about the teen counseling and gynecology services we offer at Markidan Gynecology and Women’s Health, contact us today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Markidan and our office in Princeton, New Jersey.