First Visits: Taking Your Daughter to the Gynecologist

It’s a common misconception that girls should not see a gynecologist until they become sexually active. However, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, girls should have their first visit between 13 and 15 years old. Even though this first visit doesn’t necessarily include a Pap test or pelvic exam (this will come later, generally advisable around age 21), having a general physical exam and an initial external genital exam are vastly important for a girl in her early teenage years.

A first visit to the gynecologist can be scary. It is certainly permissible to accompany your daughter into the exam, but if she prefers, she can also meet with the doctor alone.

A general physical exam examines your daughter’s height, weight, blood pressure, blood/urine tests, and any other potential health problems. In the preliminary external genital exam, the gynecologist will look at your daughter’s vulva, and perhaps give your daughter a mirror, explaining the names and parts of her body. The importance of the external genital exam is not only for informative reasons, but also to check for any swelling, sores, or other concerns with the external genitalia.

Seeing a gynecologist at an early age will allow your daughter to be more knowledgeable about her body. Rather than growing up thinking that the subject of reproductive health is uncomfortable, she will understand what is normal, and what might be problematic in regards to her body.

Additionally, a gynecologist will educate your daughter about normal vaginal discharge, and how to protect herself if she has sex.

There are other benefits to visiting the gynecologist at an early age. Your daughter can ask about acne, weight gain, problems relating to her menstrual period, sex and sexuality, birth control, emotional issues, staying healthy, and many other subjects that might be uncomfortable to ask a parent or general practitioner.

To learn more and ask more questions about taking your daughter to the gynecologist for the first time, give us a call at (305) 270–2331 or visit Miami Obstetrics & Gynecology.