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What do they do at the gynecologist for the first time?
She’ll take a look at your cervix for any abnormalities and collect a small sample of cells for a Pap test, to see if the cervix is healthy. She might also test for infections. (You usually have to ask for these tests specifically — you should talk to her first and decide together what kind of tests you should have.)
Should I get a pelvic exam at 18?
You should have your first gynecological exam when you are around the age of 18 years old (recommended earlier than 18 if you are sexually active or have a medical problem requiring a pelvic exam). After the first exam, you should continue to have exams once a year, especially if you are sexually active.
What does a gynecologist do to a teenage girl?
PAG, a new clinical service within Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, focuses on providing care for young women from birth to age 21. In addition to routine preventive care, PAG physicians treat problems ranging from infections to heavy menstrual cycles to disorders of sexual development.
Can you get a Pap at 18?
In the past, many health care providers used to recommend that teens have a Pap smear at 16 or 18. Now, however, the American College of Physicians does not recommend any routine gynecologic exams for teens at low risk of having the HPV or other sexually transmitted infections.
How awkward is the gynecologist?
Will the Visit be Uncomfortable or Awkward? While it’s completely normal to be nervous before your first gynecological exam, there’s really no reason to be. Most likely, the appointment won’t be nearly as awkward or scary as you might expect.
How do you relax at the Obgyn?
11 Tips to Cope With OB/GYN Anxiety
- Find a provider who you like.
- Bring a friend or family member with you.
- Ask questions.
- Use these six simple words.
- Realize that you have control over the exam.
- Relax your muscles and breathe.
- Move your legs way down.
- Find distractions.
When should a girl have her first gynecologic visit?
An obstetrician-gynecologist (ob-gyn) is a doctor who specializes in the health care of women. Girls should have their first gynecologic visit between the ages of 13 years and 15 years. Is it normal to be nervous before the first visit?
What should I expect at my first OB/GYN appointment?
Regardless of your age, a medical professional will do a general physical exam to check your height, weight, and blood pressure before an ob/gyn checks you out. Your doctor typically won’t perform a pelvic exam to check out your reproductive organs during your first ob/gyn visit.
What happens during a gynecological exam?
The first is an external genital exam to look at your vulva, which includes everything you can see on the outside of your body, like your labia, clitoris, and the opening of your vagina. If your doctor offers you a mirror so you can see what’s up down there—or if you want to request one—don’t be shy!
When should you see a gynecologist for a Pap test?
“Pap testing and routine pelvic exam are not indicated before age 21. So, unless a patient younger than 21 is having a specific problem, there may be no reason to see a gynecologist,” says Dr. Pizarro. “Problems that her pediatrician cannot address may require referral to a gynecologist, and Pap testing should probably not be part of that.