Three reasons why adolescent gynecology is vital for young women

Adolescent gynecology gets young women off to a healthy start in their female healthcare journey. When should a young woman schedule her first visit with a gynecologist? There is no fixed rule, but the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that young women have their first gynecology visit between the ages of 13 and 15.

Some adolescents may need to make an appointment with our San Antonio OBGYNs sooner, if they start menstruating earlier or have health issues. Here are three reasons to make an adolescent OBGYN appointment.

1. The first gynecology visit helps establish a doctor/patient relationship.

Usually, during a first visit to the gynecologist, the physician and the patient just talk. The physician tells young women what to expect during future adolescent gynecology appointments and provides information about their health. The team also encourages adolescents to ask questions about anything that concerns them.

Our gynecologists ask and answer questions about menstruation as well as emotional and sexual health. Sometimes, our San Antonio OBGYNs perform certain examinations and give vaccines as needed. The first visit should be comfortable and teach young women that our office is a safe place where our compassionate physicians are here to help them.

2. Adolescent gynecology appointments are a safe place to learn.

Young women don’t always feel comfortable talking to their peers or their parents about things like sex, relationships or mental health issues. Our physicians are caring professionals who discuss these issues daily, so most adolescents feel like they can talk about confidential issues openly.

3. Our San Antonio OBGYNs provide preventive adolescent care.

A young woman’s first gynecology visit is the start of a lifetime of women’s wellness. At every appointment, our physicians focus on the whole woman, not just her female health issues. They discuss many crucial issues with adolescents.

• Body image and eating disorders
• Dating violence
• Peer pressure
• Sexually transmitted infections
• Preventing pregnancy
• Mental health issues

Our physicians are highly trained to deal with menstrual problems, cysts, vaginal infections, PMS and other gynecologic problems young women have. They discuss pregnancy prevention and educate teens about safe sex and sexually transmitted diseases. They also discuss women’s emotional and sexual health at every adolescent gynecology wellness visit.

Today’s world is complicated for young women, but our San Antonio OBGYNs are here to lend a helping hand. Contact us for an appointment today.