An examination at the gynecologist, not only for the first time, is often stressful for girls. Nevertheless, it should be understood that regular visits to the doctor, as well as preventive examinations are the key to success in the fight for health. The first visit to the gynecologist is an important moment in the life of every teenage girl.
There are many opinions about when you should go to the gynecologist for the first time. Some say immediately after her first menstrual period, while others say that if nothing happens and the woman has not become sexually active, she can wait until she is 25. On the other hand, some women go to their first appointment only when they are pregnant. Who to believe? The truth, as always, lies in the middle.
Determining the best time for the first visit depends primarily on the individual. If a girl has not had sexual intercourse, has regular periods, has the necessary knowledge (e.g., from her mother or school) about her health, hygiene and preventive checkups, she can take her time with her first visit.
However, if you are experiencing worrisome sensations, such as irregular or painful periods, itching or vaginal discharge. This is a signal to visit your doctor as soon as possible. In the recommendations of gynecologist Anna Kozakova, it is said that the first visit to a gynecologist should take place between the ages of 12 and 15, when a girl usually starts her first period.
Parents must be present during a medical visit to a minor. However, if it is the will of the parents and the patient, he or she does not need to be present during the examination.
So, what does the first visit to the gynecologist look like?
During the first preventive visit, the doctor will gather information regarding your general health and medical history. He will ask questions about gynecological health - about the course of the menstrual cycle or the appearance of vaginal discharge or itching.
If necessary, in a manner appropriate to the girl's age, he will teach about the physiology of the reproductive system and the course of puberty. For girls over the age of 15, your doctor can also teach about sexuality and different methods of contraception.
In addition, he will provide information about HPV vaccination and the need for preventive examinations (such as cytology every year in sexually active minors). Further visits to the gynecologist should take place annually, or more often if complaints arise. To make it easier to remember your annual visit, it is worth making an appointment, for example, in the month of your birth. In a few years, these visits will become a good habit for you.
The first visit of a teenage girl to a gynecologist
One of the difficulties that must be "overcome" by a teenager who wants to see a gynecologist is the fact that she, as a minor, cannot go alone. A parent or legal guardian must be with her. This rule applies not only to visiting a gynecologist, but also to any other doctor. The exception is a threat to life and health - then help is provided and parents are informed at the same time.
However, not everyone wants to see a gynecologist with mom or dad. Some girls are shy, others do not have the support of their parents (they hear at home "why do you need a gynecologist? He's a pregnancy doctor!"). It's worth a try, because a parent or guardian doesn't have to be in the office during the review itself!
All he has to do is walk into the office with you and agree to the review. Then you have a choice, do you want to stay in the office alone with your parents, or will the doctor call the midwife. When a prescription for medication needs to be given, parental consent is also required.
The girl may come alone for her next visits, as long as the parents or guardian give such consent and the doctor records it in the medical records.
For patients between the ages of 16 and 18, the physician must obtain consent for the visit, examination and treatment from both the parents and the patient. This means that an adolescent of this age has the right to refuse to undergo a medical examination or undergo examinations or other medical procedures. The doctor and parents must respect the child's opinion.
A visit to the gynecologist, how to prepare?
Good preparation, not only for the first visit, is half of its success. It is best to visit a gynecologist a few days after your period ends or in the first half of your menstrual cycle. Before the visit, you should have in mind the answers to the standard "gynecological" questions or write them down on a piece of paper:
- When was your last period (i.e., when was the first day of your last period)?
- Or regular periods, how many days do they come and how long do they last?
- Are your periods painful?
- Were you pregnant? If so, when exactly?
- How many times have you given birth?
- Do you have any chronic diseases?
- Are you taking any medications?
During the visit, the doctor may ask for more information if necessary. You can also prepare questions you would like to ask the doctor at the end of your visit.
Gynecologist visit to keep in mind
An internal exam is recommended with an empty bladder.
Before the visit, you need to observe the rules of normal hygiene.
You should wear a skirt, dress / tunic, for your comfort for the visit. You can also use special disposable gowns, which are available at the clinic.
You do not need to take off your socks for the examination (although you can be barefoot or wear disposable foot pads (shoe covers) - do as you like, the main thing is your comfort and convenience.
So let's popularize preventive examinations among young people. Plan a day with your mother, sister or friend, during which you will find time not only for coffee and a movie, but also to see a gynecologist - recommends Anna Kozakova.
Women's health is the key to the health of the whole body of every woman.
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