Take care of your body and take control of your health with your first OB-GYN checkup. Here we help demystify your first gynecological visit.
It’s time for your first OB-GYN checkup, but what is it for, and why is it important? According to ACOG, you should have your first visit with an OB-GYN between 13 and 15 years old. Being nervous for your first visit to the gynecologist is normal, but you don’t have to be. Below we answer some of your questions regarding your first OB-GYN visit.
What is an OB-GYN?
An obstetrician-gynecologist (OB-GYN) is a doctor who specializes in the health care of the female reproductive system, including breasts, uterus, ovaries, vagina, and vulva. You see an OB-GYN for information and direction regarding your development and well-being. It’s also a good idea to start building trust with a reproductive healthcare provider you will continue seeing yearly. Your OB-GYN will be the doctor you turn to throughout your life, from menstruation to menopause.
Dr. Lona Sasser and Dr. Mary Squire-De Leon are highly skilled gynecologists in Coral Springs, Florida, who offer various gynecological services for patients of all ages, including pediatric gynecological exams. Our office has staff that speaks both English and Spanish. Make an appointment with our compassionate doctors today for menstruation, contraception, pregnancy, or even urological or gastrointestinal symptoms.
Easily book online or call us at (954) 340-1050.
Why is seeing a gynecologist important?
You may be surprised to know that under the Affordable Care Act, women in the U.S. receive a free annual OB-GYN checkup. It’s no-cost because it’s essential preventative healthcare. These visits help women catch health issues from their earliest stages of development before they get serious. Talking to your doctor about your health questions builds trust and empowers you to better understand your body.
Many teens bring similar concerns to their first obgyn visit, including:
- Questions about puberty and your changing body
- Issues with cramps and uncomfortable menstrual periods
- Questions about how to use tampons
- Questions regarding breast and skin changes
- Questions or concerns regarding sex and sexuality
- Questions about birth control and contraception
- Concerns regarding STIs and testing
- Inquiries into how alcohol, drugs, and smoking can affect reproductive health
- Questions regarding emotional ups and downs due to hormonal changes
Being nervous for your first gynecological visit is normal; you can tell your doctor how you feel. They can help you feel more at ease. Gynecologists are there to help you feel safe and comfortable in your changing body.
If you have questions or concerns regarding any of the topics above, you can speak with a doctor and get information that may be hard to discuss at home. Most of the information that you share can and will be kept confidential. Your doctor should be a trusted resource!
What should I expect at my first OB-GYN checkup?
The first OB-GYN checkup may simply be a talk between you and your doctor. At this visit, you can share your medical history and take the time to talk about your questions, including questions about your body, puberty, and sex. You will find out what to expect from future visits and get information from your OB-GYN about how to stay healthy, whether you are sexually active or not.
Your doctor may ask a lot of questions about you and your family. Some questions are very personal, and you should prepare to talk honestly about things like your menstrual period or sexual activities. Speaking candidly on these issues is the only way your doctor can know how to care for you. Depending on your specific needs, You can expect physical exams and vaccinations.
Which exams happen at the OB-GYN?
What sort of physical exams should you expect at your OB-GYN checkup? These are often a general physical exam and an external genital exam. A general physical will measure things like your height, blood pressure, and maybe your weight. An external genital exam means the doctor looks at your vulva. You can ask for a mirror so you can look at it too. You can choose to have a nurse or family member present for any part of the exam.
Compassionate, comprehensive care
For caring, experienced, and attentive doctors, schedule your appointment with our team. We understand your fears regarding your first gynecological visit and are here to help. Reach out to the team at Dr. Lona Sasser, Obstetrics & Gynecology today.
Easily book online or call us at (954) 340-1050.
Source: ACOG
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