Question:What is a gynecologist? Answer: Gynecologists are the primary doctors for women. Gynecologists address all health issues that could affect teenage girls and adult women. This means breast and bone health, weight issues, PMS, period problems, hormonal imbalances, STDs and birth-control, and even skin problems. Think of us as "one-stop-shopping" for women's health!
Question:What can I expect at my first visit to a gynecologist? Answer: The good news is that usually a pelvic or internal vaginal exam is NOT necessary! The doctor will probably talk to you and your parent together, and also separately. You may have a breast exam, and be taught how to check your own breasts. Sometimes blood tests are done. It is important to see a gynecologist who regularly sees teenagers, so that they are current in the latest guidelines on what teens need and what they don't need. For example, teenage girls do not need pap smears, which check the cells of the cervix.
Question:When should I start seeing a gynecologist? Answer:The national guidelines recommend that girls see a gynecologist for the first time around the ages of 13-15. This is a good opportunity to review all the facts about your period and find out what's normal and what's not normal. If you have menstrual cramps, a gynecologist can give you some good tips for safely and effectively treating them. Most parents do not know about the 13-15 year old recommendation, so you should be sure to discuss this with them and your pediatrician.
Question:When do I need an internal exam with a gynecologist? Answer: If someone is sexually active, they need to start having regular check-ups to screen for STDs (sexually transmitted diseases). I usually tell my patients, 'If you are going to engage in adult behavior, then you need to act like an adult, and be responsible and mature about protecting your health.' These regular screening check-ups are not painful.
Question:What else do gynecologists do? Answer: Most gynecologists also deliver babies (these doctors are also called obstetricians), and perform surgery on female organs. We are trained in hormonal issues, general medicine and surgery, but are not trained in the same way as pediatricians. For this reason, it is a good idea for teenagers to see both a pediatrician AND a gynecologist.
For more information, read my book, The Body Scoop for Girls: A Straight-Talk Guide to a Healthy, Beautiful You. It is out this month!!
To you health!
Wishing you good health,
Dr. Jennifer Ashton, M.D., F.A.C.O.G.
