What to Expect at the First Visit
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that a young woman has her first gynecologic visit between the ages of 13 and 15. For most girls, this visit is primarily about education and building a relationship with their provider.
- The Conversation: Most of the first visit is spent talking. We discuss the transition through puberty, what to expect with menstrual cycles, and healthy lifestyle habits.
- The General Exam: We typically perform a standard health check, including height, weight, and blood pressure. We may also perform an external genital exam, but a full pelvic exam is usually not necessary during the first visit unless there is a specific medical concern.
- Confidentiality: We prioritize the patient’s privacy. While we encourage open communication between patients and parents, we also provide time for the adolescent to speak privately with the provider to ask sensitive questions.
- Empowerment: We use this time to teach young women about their bodies, helping them understand what is normal and when they should reach out for medical advice.
Guidance Through Every Change
Adolescence brings about significant physical and emotional changes. Our team provides expert care and counseling for a variety of concerns, including:
- Menstrual Issues: Evaluation of irregular, heavy, or painful periods.
- Puberty Milestones: Guidance on the timing and development of secondary sexual characteristics.
- Contraceptive Counseling: Discussion of options for birth control and pregnancy prevention.
- STD Prevention: Education on sexually transmitted diseases and the importance of safe practices.
- HPV Vaccination: Providing the Gardasil vaccine to protect against the human papillomavirus.
- Hygiene and Skin Care: Addressing concerns about vaginal health, discharge, and hormonal acne.
Comprehensive Care for the Concerns That Matter Most
Our providers offer a full range of gynecologic services — from routine preventive care to evaluation and treatment of specific health concerns. Click any item below to learn more.
- Annual or “well-woman” exams
- Adolescent gynecology
- Breast exams & breast pain
- Pap smears
- Colposcopy
- Contraception (hormonal and non-hormonal)
- IUD consultations, insertion, removal & management (Mirena, Paragard, Nexplanon)
- HPV vaccination (Gardasil)
- Management of abnormal Pap tests
- STD testing, information, and treatment
Partnering in Your Daughter’s Health
We understand that the first gynecologist visit can be a source of anxiety for both the daughter and the parent. Our providers are experts at navigating this transition with sensitivity. We focus on:
- Removing the Stigma: Making gynecological care a routine and positive part of overall wellness.
- Accurate Information: Providing a professional source for health information to counter what teenagers may hear from peers or the internet.
- Supportive Environment: Ensuring your daughter feels heard, respected, and empowered as she matures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Meet the Providers Who Care for You
Our entire OB/GYN team is here for your gynecologic care, at every location.
What Patients Are Saying
