Home | Add your website

Deciding the Right Time for a First GYN Exam

The transition from teenager to young adult is difficult and confusing. Unfortunately, the same applies to health care.

One area of concern is when a young women needs to begin getting regular gynecological check-ups. It can be difficult to decide when a young lady needs to begin seeing a gynecologist versus a regular physician or pediatrician. The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists suggest that whenever a young female becomes sexually active, reaches the age of 18, or has a family or personal history that puts her in a high risk category, she should begin regularly seeing a gynecologist. The U.S. Health and Human Services Office on Women's Health concurs with this timeline, who supports Well Woman Care on a routine basis.

However, many factors such as physical and emotional development, medical history, onset of puberty, sexual activity and substance abuse affects the age at which this exam becomes necessary. Speaking to the current pediatrician or physician can help the young woman decide upon the right timeline for her.

Basics of a GYN Exam

There are three basic parts to a GYN annual exam.

The physician will first start with a detailed personal and family history on new patients. The young lady will fill out a detailed questionnaire. Then the physician or nurse will review and clarify information.

Next will be the physical exam. Male physicians will have a female nurse present for the examination, which consists of a breast and vaginal exam. The Pap smear test is accomplished during the vaginal examination. Most physicians will then leave and have the patient dress. They return to discuss such information as birth control approaches, schedule of exams, and other pertinent information.

Things to Consider When Scheduling

Prior to scheduling that first appointment, there are a few things the young woman needs to consider.

The young woman's menstrual cycle needs to be taken into account. Try to schedule the exam one week after menses but at least two weeks before the next cycle is due to begin. This narrows the window of opportunity down to around a two-week time frame. But, doing this ground work will lead to a more comfortable experience and better test results. It is also normal to be anxious. This is a new and intensely personal exam. It can help to remember that every woman faces this same problem. Try talking with friends and family about their experiences, and how they conquered the associated anxiety. Other things to consider are avoiding sex or douching at least 24 hours prior to the appointment. Wear loose, easily removed clothing and shoes. Be sure to shower and wash hair, while avoiding excessive perfumes or creams the morning of the exam.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Being a sexually active adult carries many responsibilities. A female can contract or spread a STD at any age, the only requirement being unprotected sex with an infected partner. One must take care of their own body and be responsible for ensuring they do not transmit diseases to their partners.

There's a multitude of sexually transmitted diseases such as gonorrhea, HIV, herpes and more. The young lady will need to understand how these diseases are transmitted, then establish a plan for avoiding them. A gynecologist can provide accurate information, establish a plan for prevention, and provide continuing education and follow-up during subsequent visits.

Vaccines and Tests

It's also recommended that sexually active females have a Pap test every one to two years. The Pap test screens for cervical cancer. The physician will decide how often based on all the associated risk factors. Young women should also have HPV and hepatitis vaccines. These diseases are chronic and potentially deadly.

The physician will be instrumental in teaching about prevention, vaccination, and treatment of such diseases. He or she will discuss with the patient which vaccines and tests are recommended, how often they are needed, and what they will accomplish.

Birth Control

It is essential to establish a method of birth control prior to becoming sexually active. At an initial gynecological exam, the physician will address this topic. They will also provide the patient with information regarding efficacy, costs, risk factors and usability factors and will expect the patient to choose a method or combination of methods to use. Choices include birth control pills, IUDs, implants, condoms, creams, foams and other options. It is essential to understand how each method works, and what it takes to achieve compliance.

There are also other pertinent considerations such as medical and family history.

A family history of high-risk pregnancy, pregnancy care issues or obstetrics issues will be explored and taken into consideration when deciding on a birth control approach. With a little planning, the first exam will go well. Just like any unknown situation, once the first visit is completed the annual visits will be a breeze. Using resources such as books, internet, and advice from family, the young lady can be well prepared and avoid unnecessary anxiety that might cause her to avoid having the exam when the time is right.

 

Copyright ©2023 Healthcare-e. All rights reserved.