Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology
Pediatric and adolescent gynecology is a specialized field focusing on the unique reproductive health needs of children and adolescents. Learn why providing compassionate and age-appropriate care to young patients is essential.
What Is Pediatric Gynecology?
Pediatric gynecology focuses on diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the reproductive system in girls from infancy through adolescence. These conditions may include congenital anomalies, infections, menstrual irregularities and more.
What Is Adolescent Gynecology?
Adolescent gynecology is a subspecialty that addresses the specific needs of teenage girls as they transition through puberty into adulthood. It involves managing menstruation, sexual health, contraception and the treatment of gynecological issues that may arise during this critical time of growth.
When Should a Child See a Gynecologist?
While routine visits usually begin in adolescence, younger children may need to see a gynecologist if they experience issues, such as genital injuries, infections or concerns about normal development. Schedule an appointment with a gynecologist if your child has persistent symptoms or has any concerns about their reproductive health.
Girls between 13 and 15 should start having yearly checkups focusing on the female reproductive system, so gynecologists can catch minor issues before they cause serious complications. These checkups or well-woman visits provide:
- Accurate and confidential information about sex and your daughter's sexuality, her changing body and her menstrual periods
- Pregnancy and STD prevention
- Diagnosis and treatment of conditions that affect the female reproductive system, such as missed periods and pelvic or stomach pain
Your daughter might associate a gynecological exam or well-woman visit with health problems, so explaining the importance of these checkups and helping her feel more comfortable is crucial. Below are some of the reasons your daughter may need to see a gynecologist:
- She has not had her period
- Her periods are troublesome
- She is struggling with puberty
- She is sexually active or in a serious relationship
- She is questioning her gender identity
Some of the conditions pediatric and adolescent gynecologists treat include:
- Menstrual Disorders: Irregular, heavy or painful periods
- Congenital Anomalies: Abnormal development of the reproductive organs
- Ovarian Cysts: Noncancerous growths that can cause pain or discomfort
- Vulvovaginitis: Infections of the vulva and vagina, common in younger girls
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A hormonal disorder that can affect adolescents
- Puberty-Related Issues: Early or delayed puberty
The following questions can help you choose the best healthcare provider for your child. Be sure to share the answers to these questions with your daughter.
- What is your confidentiality policy?
- Are you board-certified?
- What is your approach toward discussing sexual activity?
- Do you have experience with first-time patients and teens?
- Will you see my daughter at each visit, or will she see different providers?
- Who else will be in the examining room?
Your daughter's first visit is an opportunity for her to talk about complex and sensitive topics. Whatever the reason for that first visit, it sets the stage for an excellent lifelong practice for any doctor's visit and a healthy lifestyle.
Find a Gynecologist in Rio Grande Valley
If your child needs specialized care, our Valley Baptist Physician Network team is here to help. Schedule an appointment today to help ensure your child receives experienced gynecological care.
HealthCare is Better Together. Let us help navigate your child's health journey through all stages of her life with our comprehensive pediatric and adolescent gynecology services and extensive network of healthcare providers.
For more information on pediatric and adolescent gynecology services, call 956-435-7702 or find a gynecologist in Rio Grande Valley.