Should Your Teen Visit the OB/GYN?

Published on: August 2, 2017

Discussing sexual reproduction issues with young women is important so they understand the changes that are happening with their bodies. One question that plagues many parents of teen girls is when their daughter should have her first OB/GYN visit. The problem with this question is that there is no one-size-fits all answer. Here are some of the factors to help determine whether your teen is ready to visit the OB/GYN.

  • Does she have her period? Girls are getting their periods younger and younger. Many girls have their first period by the age of ten. This doesn’t signify the need for a pelvic exam, unless there is a problem with their periods.
  • Is she sexually mature? All teens mature at different speeds. One teenage girl may be interested in dating and sexuality at 13, while other girls may be more reserved and slower to become sexually curious. If your teenager seems to be embracing her new sexuality, it may be time for her to learn more about protecting her reproductive health with a visit to an OB/GYN.
  • Is she considering becoming sexually active? This is the main reason teens schedule their first visit to the OB/GYN, with or without their parents. If you have an open relationship with your teen, let her know when she is ready to learn more about birth control and preventing STDs, that a trip to the OB/GYN is available.

Teenagers do not need have a pap smear or a pelvic exam unless they become sexually active, so it is not necessary for general health purposes to bring your teen to the OB/GYN. However, once they become sexually active or reach the age of 21, pap smears and annual exams should become part of their wellness routine.

Posted on behalf of:
Solace Woman’s Care
690 S Loop 336 W Suite 220
Conroe, TX 77304
(936) 441-7100

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