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Our Expert on Women's Health
Q: When should my daughter have her first gynecologic visit?Ask Our Expert About Teen Gynecologic Exams
About Our ExpertJudy Canaday is a certified nurse practitioner, working with gynecologists Karen Sciascia, D.O., and Helene Leonetti, M.D. Nursing Since 1973 Education B.S. in Nursing, 1973, West Virginia University School of Nursing Gynecologic/Obstetric Nurse Practitioner Certificate, 1981, Emory University Regional Training Center for Family Planning, Atlanta Certification Women's Health Care Nurse Practitioner
Q: When should my daughter have her first gynecologic visit?A: We recommend your daughter have her first exam no later than age 21 or within three years of becoming sexually active. A gynecologist or nurse practitioner can care for your daughter. A nurse practitioner is a registered nurse with additional education who is licensed to do exams, prescribe medications and interpret test results, and who specializes in educating patients. Q: Does my daughter need an exam after she gets her first period?A: No, not unless there’s a problem. It’s normal for your daughter to have irregular periods for the first few years. Her periods may be light or she may not get a period every month. If she experiences pain (beyond cramps relieved with ibuprofen) or has extremely heavy periods that last more than a week, call her physician and consider scheduling a gynecologic appointment. Q: What happens at her first visit?A: Well, we do a lot of talking. Consider, too, that your daughter is venturing into a new phase of her life. She may be going to college or moving out of your home. She’s becoming independent and will make important decisions. So, we also talk about the pressure she may face – the pressure to drink alcohol, smoke or have a sexual relationship – and we talk about the consequences of those actions. If your daughter is already sexually active, we talk about her options for birth control and the risk and prevention of sexually transmitted diseases. Q: Does my daughter need a pelvic exam and Pap test, too?A: Her first visit doesn’t need to include a pelvic exam and pap smear, unless she is sexually active. We also check sexually active girls for chlamydia - done through a urine test - each year. The Pap test finds abnormal cells in the cervix. Some practices will offer sexually transmitted disease testing for sexually active girls. Your daughter may be nervous, but her doctor or nurse practitioner can ease her mind by explaining each step of the exam or showing her the instruments that will be used. (Feel free to ask your daughter’s doctor or nurse to do this beforehand.) I also provide each young woman with a booklet that explains everything and shows drawings of the female anatomy. Q: Can I stay with my daughter during her visit?A: It depends on your daughter. Some girls feel more comfortable with mom by her side. Others feel the need to strike out and be independent. Talk to her about it before the exam, and ask her how she feels. Your daughter should, however, have some private time with her doctor or nurse practitioner. Your daughter may have important information to share, but may not talk about it in front of you. You may be the best mom in the world and your daughter may be your friend, too, but the reality is: teens don’t always tell their moms everything. (Believe me, I’m the mother of a young woman, too). We want to help ensure your daughter stays safe, is able to express herself comfortably, and gets the answers and help she may need. This page last updated 10/14/08 09:58 PM
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