The Transition from Adolescence to Womanhood

 

If you are the parent of a daughter, you many be wondering when it is time for her first visit to a Gynecologist. According to the guidelines recommended by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the first visit to a Gynecologist should take place sometime between the ages of thirteen and fifteen. Ideally, this visit will take place before sexual activity has begun.

Helping your daughter establish a good relationship with a Gynecologist is one of the important jobs you have as a parent. The first visit to a Gynecologist is an important step as she begins to transition from adolescence into womanhood. The first visit is a valuable time to establish rapport and to open the lines of communication. It also presents a valuable educational opportunity. Topics discussed during the first visit may include menstruation, normal development, sexuality, safe sex practices, smoking, drugs, alcohol and more.  The first visit does not usually involve a pelvic examination, unless circumstances indicate that one is appropriate.

Before your daughter’s first visit to a Gynecologist, you will probably be asked by her Pediatrician if you would like for her to be vaccinated for Human Papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States and can lead to genital warts, and certain types of cancers including cervical cancer in women. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend that females ages eleven and twelve be vaccinated for HPV. There are currently two HPV vaccinations available on the market: Gardasil (Merck) and Cervarix (GlaxoSmithKline). For more information about adolescent Gynecological care and HPV vaccinations, contact a qualified Gynecologist in your local area.

Posted on behalf of Dr. Carlos Alarcon, Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates, P.A.