Gynecology is a branch of medicine that deals with the health of the female reproductive system. It includes diagnosing and treating disorders affecting the ovaries, uterus, and vagina.
Gynecologists typically see girls at around 13 years old for their first pelvic exam. This routine check-up involves a physical examination of the girl’s external genitalia, but the visit is likely to be conversational more than anything else.
Most parents are confused about what their daughter will encounter during her first gynecology visit, and some wonder if it’s necessary to see a gynecologist when they already see their pediatrician. Here are all the crucial things you need to know about gynecology and girls to make an informed decision.
What Does a Gynecologist Do?
A gynecologist is a doctor who specializes in the female reproductive system. They are trained to diagnose and treat disorders affecting the ovaries, uterus, and vagina. This can include anything from irregular periods to cancerous tumors.
Another term you may come across is “obstetrician”. This is a type of gynecologist who also specializes in pregnancy and childbirth. So, if you’re pregnant, you’ll likely see an obstetrician.
A qualified gynecologist should have at least eight years of training and must be certified by an examining body, such as the American Board of Gynecologists (ABOG). What’s more, they should be registered by a professional organization like the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).
At What Age Should You See a Gynecologist?
So, when should you seek Gynecologic Care Mountain View? ACOG recommends starting gynecologic visits from age 13 to 15 years. At this age, your doctor can begin tracking your development and answer any questions you may have about your body.
Not to mention, it’s crucial to build a relationship with your doctor to ease the transition into adulthood. However, no matter what, you should see a gynecologist at least once every year after age 18 and even more if you’re sexually active.
What Do Gynecologists Do in Their Office?
What happens at the gynecologist’s office will depend on why you’re seeking Gynecology Services Mountain View.
- Do you need a Pap test? A pap smear is used to detect cell abnormalities that can potentially lead to cervical cancer.
- What about birth control? Your doctor will likely discuss your options and help you select the best one for your lifestyle needs.
- Do you have irregular periods? Your doctor may recommend a hormone level evaluation to determine if you have an imbalance.
- What about infertility? Your doctor will likely evaluate your menstrual cycle, ovulation patterns and any other relevant data to make a diagnosis and offer possible solutions.
However, if it’s your first time visiting a gynecologist, you may be wondering what to expect. A young woman’s first visit is primarily conversational. The gynecologist will ask about your health history, family medical history, and any other relevant questions.
They will also perform a physical exam, including taking your blood pressure, checking your reflexes and examining your genitalia. The gynecologist may also take a Pap smear if you’re due for one. In addition to this, the doctor will let you know what to expect in future visits and how often you should come in for check-ups.
If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to speak up. The gynecologist is there to help you and wants to make sure that you’re comfortable with the care you’re receiving.
Common Procedures That Gynecologists Carry Out
ABOG-certified gynecologists have adequate training to carry out various diagnostic and surgical procedures, including:
- Ultrasound screening
- Pap smear tests
- Colposcopy
- Hysteroscopy
- Endometrial biopsy
- Major surgery like removing fibroids
- Minor surgery, such as sterilization
- Laparoscopy
- Postoperative care
Some gynecologists may also be involved in surgical conditions like small bowel obstructions.
Wrapping Up
If you have a young daughter, it’s essential to start thinking about bringing her to the gynecologist early on. While your pediatrician can provide a lot of care for your child, it’s crucial to have a gynecologist who can specifically look at the health of your daughter’s reproductive system.
By bringing her in for regular check-ups, you can help ensure that any potential problems are caught and treated early on. Not to mention, your daughter will get used to the idea of going to a gynecologist, which will make her more likely to go on her own when she is an adult.
At Women’s Hospital Mountain View, we ensure that every one of our patients feels comfortable and respected. We offer various services, from annual check-ups to diagnostics and treatments. If you have any questions or concerns about your daughter’s health, please don’t hesitate to contact us.