Adolescent Services

As a young woman reaches puberty and adolescence, her body goes through many changes on its way to adulthood. The doctors at Crown OB/Gyn help young women to understand their bodies and the many changes they are going through.

There is no right time when teenagers must start seeing a gynecologist but we encourage a visit if they are having problems with their menstrual cycle (irregular, heavy, crampy), prior to becoming sexually active, or if they have any other concerns about their bodies or sexuality. Most teenagers establish with a gynecologist sometime during high school, sometimes earlier.

Gynecology for adolescents is focused on the care and treatment of young women including those who are just entering puberty. The preteen and teen years are times of significant change and hormonal fluctuations, and gynecologists are skilled in helping young patients understand and navigate these changes so they can feel more confident about themselves, their bodies, and their health. Adolescence is also a time where menstruation can be irregular and sometimes disruptive to a young girl’s quality of life, and our Crown OB/Gyn gynecologists can help manage these issues. Plus, our gynecologists are trained to help young patients get the information and guidance they need to overcome concerns and answer questions about their sexual and reproductive health. We offer a variety of both short term (birth control pill, patch, ring, depo provera) and long term (nexplanon, IUDs) contraception to adolescent patients. Our gynecologists also provide counseling on sexuality, safe sex, and body autonomy.

When an adolescent woman visits Crown OB/Gyn, her doctor will perform some of the same measurements and tests that adult women have during their annual well-woman exam, such as taking her weight and blood pressure and asking questions about her lifestyle. Patients will also be asked about any symptoms or concerns they may have. Unless teenage patients have specific concerns about their body or anatomy, they usually do not require an exam at the time of their office visit.

The vast majority of the time, pap smears are not recommended until age 21 unless it is necessary to treat a patient.

The doctors at Crown OB/Gyn want their young patients to feel empowered and in control of their own bodies. The doctor will answer questions and provide advice on a number of topics including periods, bodily changes, and how to care for her body to help the young patient feel comfortable and confident. The doctor can also talk about sexual health concerns such as birth control, pregnancy, and sexually transmitted diseases. The patient can ask questions about any other health-related issues like acne, weight management, and the emotional and physical changes associated with puberty.

This first visit to a gynecologist can make the adolescent feel nervous, embarrassed, or scared. We take the time to make her feel as comfortable as possible. Parents should also take a few minutes to:

• Help your daughter know what to expect

• Talk about any questions or fears she might have

• Give her a reassuring hug to ease feelings of anxiety and stress.

The appointment is not about invading, but starting a conversation.