Puberty occurs between adolescence and adulthood when our hormones cause our reproductive systems and sexual characteristics to develop. For girls growing into women, it’s often the time for an initial gynecological appointment. Your daughter’s first visit can seem overwhelming and even scary, so we want to demystify the experience and ease any anxieties.
If you live in the Las Vegas, Nevada area, and your little girl is starting to become a young woman, Dr. Staci McHale and her dedicated medical team at New Beginnings OB-GYN can help her on that journey. Here, we examine the basics of a gynecology appointment, determine when the first visit should take place, and review what the experience is going to entail.
A gynecologist specializes in dealing with the female reproductive system, covering a wide range of needs for a woman throughout her life. Visits generally involve gathering medical history, information about sexual activity, physical examinations when necessary, and assessing any abnormal reproductive changes.
Throughout a woman’s life, we help with things like breasts and pelvic exams, managing difficult reproductive conditions, going over birth control options, supporting fertility and childbirth, and assisting with the changes during menopause.
There is no exact timetable as girls usually start puberty between 8-13 but the first visit often happens between the ages of 13-15 years old. Many factors are considered when making the first visit, including mental and physical development, as well as your daughter’s comfort in understanding and discussing personal matters.
Your daughter’s relationship with her gynecologist should be a positive one, so the first visit is an important step in starting a relationship that often lasts many years. This also means an open discussion between parent and child about the changes that are happening as they age and helping to set the expectation for her first visit.
No two visits are exactly the same, but your daughter’s first visit may involve questions about her medical history, sexual activity, and menstrual cycle. She can also ask questions about her changing body and what to expect throughout puberty.
Basic examinations like breast and pelvic exams may occur on the first visit depending on your daughter’s age and needs. Some more invasive exams may not be done until around 21.
Making sure your daughter is comfortable and involved in her sexual health is the most important part of any exam, so the first visit focuses on setting that standard for all future interactions. When you and your young woman are ready to start this journey, make an appointment with Dr. McHale and New Beginnings OB-GYN to begin.
