When Should a Woman Start Seeing a Gynecologist? Michael Basco, MD FACOG, Weighs In
A common misconception plaguing the medical field is that women only need to visit a gynecologist when they are pregnant. In fact, there are a whole host of reasons why a woman should see a gynecologist, many of which are likely to occur before pregnancy. While many girls experiencing issues with their reproductive system tend to visit a family doctor when they’re young, seeking out a specialist in gynecology is recommended.
Michael Basco, MD is a registered OB-GYN but has shifted his career to become a Medical Director (MSL/OL) Professional for pharmaceutical companies. Michael Basco, holds expertise in both Obstetrics and Gynecology. Throughout his extensive career, Dr. Michael Basco has worked with women of all ages and knows firsthand that reproductive health is of the utmost importance. That is why he recommends starting annual checkups at a young age, and of course, booking an appointment if any concerning issues should arise.
From helping explain menstruation to your daughter to testing for cervical cancer, there are plenty of reasons why women should start seeing a gynecologist. Continue reading for Michael Basco’s professional opinions on the ideal age a woman should first schedule a visit with a gynecologist, what to expect during your first appointment, and the main reasons to visit when you’re young.
The Ideal Age
The American Congress of Obstetrics and Gynecology and the North American Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology both recommend that all women see a gynecologist at the age of 21 to receive a Pap test, regardless of sexual activity. However, issues with the female reproductive system can arise long before the age of 21. This is why Dallas, Texas-based MD FACOG Michael Basco advises parents to make their daughter’s first appointment with a gynecologist between the ages of 13 and 15. In the United States, the average age that girls begin to menstruate is 12 years and 9 months. Whether your daughter is experiencing significant pain caused by their period, or simply has questions about menstruation, it is around this time that Dr. Basco recommends women schedule their first visit.
What to Expect
If your daughter is nervous about their first appointment, Dr. Michael Basco urges them not to be. First, he wants to clarify another misconception surrounding gynecologists: Not all gynecology appointments include a pelvic exam. In fact, most initial exams, especially those for young girls, will not include a pelvic exam and will differ significantly from a typical checkup for an adult woman. This information is something Dr. Basco feels should put many girls’ minds at ease. Instead, the visit will likely include a general physical exam, where height, weight, and blood pressure measurements will be taken. There may also be a brief external genital exam, but overall, the visit will be casual, conversational, and educational above all else. As the idea of visiting a gynecologist can be viewed as awkward or embarrassing, especially for teenage girls, starting annual checkups at a young age is key when it comes to breaking down the stigma and promoting the habit of regular checkups later in life.
Main Reasons to See A Gynecologist When You’re Young
Again, many people might not think it’s necessary to visit a gynecologist at the age of 13 or 14, but in fact, this is the ideal time for it is during these years that the female body is undergoing serious change. In addition to puberty which both boys and girls face, women have the added change of menstruation. This can be extremely confusing for young girls. A gynecologist will be able to help teach them about their menstrual cycle, how to use different feminine hygiene products, and answer any questions they may have. Another way that gynecologists can help is by offering advice on pain management. There are many over-the-counter medications that can help alleviate the pain caused by period cramps. However, if your daughter is experiencing severe pain beyond what is normal, the gynecologist will also be able to assess this and prescribe something to help, such as hormonal therapies. Furthermore, as young girls turn into young adults, there will inevitably be other issues relating to their reproductive health that come up. Birth control, the HPV vaccine, and Pap smears are all topics that warrant a trip to the gynecologist. Lastly, gynecologists serve as a wealth of knowledge when it comes to reproductive health. Unfortunately, many school curriculum's are lagging behind when it comes to health and sex education. Luckily, gynecologists are there to pick up the slack and can help teach your daughter about everything from birth control and STD prevention to vaginal discomfort and period pain.
