What does a gynecologist do?
A gynecologist specializes in providing the best possible medical care throughout the many stages of a woman’s life, beginning with the start of menstruation in adolescence, continuing through the childbearing years of early adulthood, and extending on through menopause, or the end of fertility.
Why should adolescents see a gynecologist?
A girl’s first visit to the gynecologist touches on a variety of important topics, including good health habits and why gynecology is an important part of routine preventive care. Her first visit also includes a general physical that measures her height, weight, and blood pressure, as well as a breast exam and an external genital exam.
Adolescents don’t usually have pelvic exams, unless they’ve been experiencing a gynecological problem like pelvic pain or abnormal bleeding.
For Dr. Khamvongsa, providing care for adolescent patients serves four main purposes:
- Information: Dr. Khamvongsa provides accurate information for any questions or concerns a girl may have about sex, sexuality, menstruation, or her changing body. All questions and answers are kept confidential.
- Prevention: Dr. Khamvongsa is committed to educating his young patients so they know how to prevent sexually transmitted infections as well as pregnancy. Prevention also includes recommendations on how to lead a healthy lifestyle.
- Treatment: For girls who are experiencing gynecological problems, such as irregular periods, painful periods, or heavy periods, Dr. Khamvongsa can assess the problem and offer treatment options.
- Support: Early gynecological care can help adolescents understand and feel more comfortable with their own bodies; it can also help them build a supportive patient-doctor relationship.
When should a child have her first pelvic exam?
Girls generally don’t need to undergo a pelvic exam, unless they’re experiencing a problem or symptoms that require one. Most healthy women have their first pelvic exam at the age of 21, which is when the first Pap smear, or cervical cancer screening test, is recommended.
Adolescents or younger women who do need a pelvic exam should know that the exam itself is relatively brief and has three parts:
- Looking at the vulva
- Examining the vagina and the cervix with a speculum
- Checking the internal organs with a gloved hand
What type of patient information is confidential?
Most of the information that an adolescent shares with her gynecologist is confidential, including:
- Sexual activity
- Sexual orientation
- Gender identity
- Contraception
- STI testing
- STI treatment
Dr. Khamvongsa wants his young patients to feel confident about sharing personal information — it’s the only way he can offer appropriate advice and personalized care.
To schedule a pediatric or adolescent gynecology appointment, call The Miami Institute for Women's Health or book an appointment online today.
