The first visit to the gynecologist
When should the first visit to the gynecologist be? What is it and do you need to prepare for it in a special way? What questions can the doctor ask, and does he / she carry out tests at the first visit? In what situations is it recommended to consult a gynecologist before starting menstruation? What is the role of parents during the girl's first visit to the gynecological office?
Every woman knows how important regular gynecological checkups are. Fortunately, health awareness is increasing in the population, and knowledge about appropriate prevention and the possibility of diagnosing and treating certain female conditions is becoming more widespread. Every woman should have a gynecological consultation once a year – not just until she stops procreating. But when should you visit a gynecologist for the first time, and what should you know about such a visit?
When is the first visit to the gynecologist?
If the girl's development so far is not causing concern to the parents or the pediatrician caring for her, the first visit to the gynecologist should take place after the onset of menstruation . This meeting is purely informational. It serves to determine whether there are any abnormalities in the girl's sexual development and, if necessary, to provide gynecological education.
You can wait until the age of 15 for the first menstruation to start. If it does not appear by then, it is also worth going to the gynecologist to check the cause.
The first visit to the gynecologist: how is it going?
During the first visit, a gynecological examination is usually not necessary; the entire process consists primarily of a conversation with the patient and their parents. The doctor discusses the normal menstrual cycle with the girl and explains how to perform a breast self-examination . In consultation with the patient's parents, the decision to vaccinate against HPV is also made . This vaccination is most effective when administered from the age of 11 until before the onset of sexual activity. For vaccination against human papillomavirus (HPV) before the age of 14, a two-dose regimen is used. After the age of 14, a three-dose regimen is required.
Expert advises
It is a good idea to bring a menstrual cycle diary with you for the first gynecological visit. The doctor's basic questions will concern the course of the cycle, the duration of menstruation, the severity of bleeding and any accompanying pain. The remaining questions concern general health, medications used and surgeries.
During your first gynecological visit, in some cases, it may be necessary to examine the external genitalia or perform an ultrasound with a transabdominal probe . It's important to note that a full urinary bladder is necessary for the examination to be effective. Very rarely, if changes in the reproductive organs are suspected and the transabdominal probe is difficult to visualize, a transrectal ultrasound may be necessary.
When is the visit to the gynecologist before the first menstruation?
When should you visit a gynecologist before your period starts? The reasons for such a consultation are as follows :
- if vaginal bleeding occurs before the age of 9;
- when there are discharge, itching, redness of the labia or other changes worrying the parents;
- when features of sexual maturation appear, such as the development of the mammary glands, an increase in axillary or pubic hair.
A check-up with a gynecologist in early adolescence allows you to become familiar with a doctor of this specialty and to confidently go to see a doctor if you experience any genital complaints or to plan appropriate contraceptive methods before starting sexual intercourse.
Expert advises
If, however, for various reasons, it is not possible to see the gynecologist at that time, the next date of the first visit should be the beginning of sexual activity. Within a year from the first intercourse, and we are talking about any form of sexual contact with a man or woman, cytology is recommended, i.e. a prophylactic examination for cervical cancer. In intercourse patients, the first Pap smear should be performed after the age of 25.
Consultation in case of disorders
Menstrual disorders are becoming increasingly common among young women. One of these is secondary amenorrhea, a condition in which a previously menstruating girl stops bleeding for several months.
The problem may arise from very different reasons and concern both slim, slimming patients, as well as those struggling with overweight and obesity. This condition indicates a hormonal disorder and cannot be underestimated. During the consultation with the gynecologist, appropriate diagnostics and further treatment are determined, as well as the need for possible treatment.
The first visit to the gynecologist: the role of parents
Parents play a crucial role in planning a first gynecologist visit. Girls under 18 usually come to their appointment with a guardian, usually their mother. This is also important for health education, passed down from generation to generation.
Maintaining the attitude of a person who is aware of their health and regularly uses the possibilities of prophylaxis and treatment of gynecological diseases, shapes good habits for the future and allows for longer functioning in health and well-being.
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