The Importance of a Teen Girl’s First Gynecologist Visit

Doctors recommends that women undergo an annual check-up when they hit their early 20s or become sexually active, whichever comes earlier. Here are the different exams you may undergo:

 1. Abdominal Exam

The doctor feels your stomach and abdomen for suspicious bumps using her hands. Doctors are refers to this as the Fundic height, which has a standard for each age group.

2. Internal Exam

If the patient being examined is no longer a virgin, the doctor inspects the vagina for any abnormalities. Just relax. A Pap smear may be done by using special wand or cotton swab to gather a sample of your cervical (the “mouth” of the uterus connected to the vagina) cells.

3. Pelvic Exam

The doctor places your feet on stirrups at the foot of the bed, with your back slightly tilted and knees up so she can examine your vulva (external vagina) closely for unusual lesions, wounds and odor.

4. Anal Exam

The doctor examines your anus (rectum) to see if there are any tears or lacerations, which are particularly dangerous because bacteria from feces can easily invade the body and cause infections.

5. Breast Exam

Your doctors feels for any lumps or changes in the chest and surrounding areas. Ask her to teach you how to do a breast self-exam (BSE) so you can detect any abnormalities in between visits.

6. Laboratory Exams

Aside from physical exams, you may also be tested for specific conditions or complaints, like a complete blood count, urinalysis, VDRL (venereal disease research laboratory) test, as well tests for various STDs such as Hepatitis-B, HPV (human papillomavirus), Genital Herpes, Syphilis, Gonorrhea, and HIV/AIDS.

After the exam have been performed, the doctor prescribes necessary medication and advises you regarding any hygienic and reproductive concerns. If necessary, she schedules a follow-up visit. When your OB-Gyne tells you to come back, do so. Many make the mistake of not returning after their initial check-up to save money, but eventually come back when symptoms return, sometimes even more serious than before.