If you're younger than 21, you may have questions about the changes your body is undergoing. Maybe you've had your first menstrual period; maybe you have questions about sex -- a gynecologist can address all your concerns.
The recommended age for starting to see a gynecologist is 21, as this is when you should start having your routine Pap smears and pelvic exams; however, problems like irregular periods can come up long before that.
Today, we’re going to explain in detail many of the reasons you should visit your gynecologist before turning 21. Read more below.
Why Does the ACOG Recommend Visiting Your Gynecologist Early?
Women need to visit the gynecologist if they have any questions or medical issues. But even if there are no concerns, the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that girls first visit their gynecologist between ages 13 and 15.
During this first appointment, your gynecologist will talk to you about menstrual issues, sexually transmitted diseases, pregnancy prevention, and many more topics that will leave you educated and prepared as your body matures.
When Should I See My Gynecologist?
As said earlier, there’s no reason to wait to turn 21 to visit your gynecologist; similarly, there’s no reason to wait for problems to arise before visiting. But below are some of the situations you may find yourself in wherein you should urgently visit your gynecologist.
Early, Late, or Irregular Menstruation
Often, a girl starts menstruating between the ages of 12 and 13. If your period or your daughter's period doesn't begin during this window, you should consider visiting a gynecologist to check for hormonal imbalances.
Painful Cramps or Heavy Periods
Overactive hormones can cause heavy periods and painful cramps. If these cramps affect your quality of life or your heavy periods last longer than one week, visiting a gynecologist can help you resolve any issues.
Sexual Activity
As soon as you become sexually active -- regardless of your age -- you should regularly visit your gynecologist for sexually transmitted disease screenings and vaginal health exams. It’s also important to receive the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine before turning 26.
Pregnancy
As you already know, it’s important to visit a gynecologist if you’re pregnant. Most gynecologists are also obstetricians and will be able to work with you during your pregnancy, at childbirth, and shortly after delivering your baby.
Final Thoughts
Even before turning twenty-one, it's important to visit your OB-GYN. And remember, you don't need to have any medical issues to benefit from a visit to Complete Healthcare for Women if you live in the Tri-cities (Kennewick, Pasco, Richland). So, contact us today to book an appointment with Richard Lorenzo, DO, and female provider Kortney Jones, ARNP. (509) 392-6700.
References
Associates in Women’s Health. (n.d.). Common Reasons to Visit a Gynecologist: Associates in Women’s Health: Gynecologists. Retrieved May 27, 2021, from https://www.aiwhcincinnati.com/blog/common-reasons-to-visit-a-gynecologist
Geisinger Health. (2018, August 13). When is it time for my daughter’s first gynecologist visit? https://www.geisinger.org/health-and-wellness/wellness-articles/2018/08/13/15/17/when-is-it-time-for-my-daughters-first-gynecologist-visit
MacMillan, C. (2018, January 11). When Do Teens Need a Gynecologist? Yale Medicine. https://www.yalemedicine.org/news/when-do-girls-need-a-gynecologist
Complete Healthcare for Women - Obstetrics and Gynecology
(509) 392-6700
Richard Lorenzo, D.O.
Kortney Jones ARNP
