Do You Have A Daughter? Find Out When She Should Have Her First Gynecologist Appointment

As a mother, you likely already know the importance of visiting your gynecologist on a regular basis. The gynecologist can check for problems and diseases that are prevalent in women, particularly in the reproductive system. However, if you have a daughter, you may be wondering at what age she needs to visit the gynecologist for the first time. Here are a couple of factors to consider when deciding when to make your daughter her first appointment.

Her Age

As a general rule of thumb, most girls should have their first appointment with a gynecologist between the ages of 13 to 15. During this examination, the gynecologist will doing an external exam of the genitals and discuss your daughter's development. An internal pelvic exam is not typically done at this appointment. However, while it is generally recommended your daughter visit between the ages of 13 to 15, some girls may need to visit sooner.

If She is Sexually Active

If your daughter has confided in you that she is sexually active, or you have a strong suspicion she is, you may want to make an appointment with a gynecologist, if she has not already had an appointment. A gynecologist can help get your daughter on some form of birth control to prevent teenage pregnancy, discuss safe sex with your daughter, and ensure she does not have any sexually transmitted diseases.

Menstruation Problems

The last factor that can affect when your daughter should have her first gynecologist appointment is whether she is having any menstruation problems. Girls are starting their periods at young ages, sometimes as early as eight. While it is normal for her period to be sporadic, it should not be overly painful. If she is experiencing painful menstruation that seem to be more painful than cramps, you will want to make her an appointment to be seen by a gynecologist. There are a few things that can be done about painful periods, including starting birth control pills to regulate the hormones in the body.

Taking your daughter to a gynecologist as a young teen can help her to feel more comfortable with her body as she ages, allow her to develop a rapport with the doctor, and allow her to ask a professional questions she may be embarrassed or ashamed to ask you. Learning when you should start taking your daughter is important, as it allows her to develop this relationship. When deciding when to take your daughter to a gynecologist for the first time, consider her age, whether she is sexually active, and whether you feel she needs to be seen by a professional for menstrual-related problems or pains.

For more information, contact a gynecology clinic near you, such as Naples OBGYN.

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