Your first gynecologist visit

When should you have your first visit?

In the US, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists suggests a first visit between ages 13 and 15. In many other countries, including the UK, there's no routine 'first gynaecologist visit' — your family doctor or a sexual health or young people's clinic usually covers this kind of care, and you'd see a gynaecologist only if referred.

Wherever you live, it's a good idea to see a doctor or nurse if you have questions about periods, contraception, sex, pain or anything that worries you.

What usually happens

Most first visits are mainly talking. A doctor or nurse will usually:

• ask about your general health, medicines and family history
• ask about your periods — when they started, how often they come, how heavy and painful they are
• ask whether you've had sex or are thinking about it, and talk about contraception and protection from sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
• talk about vaccines such as the HPV vaccine
• check things like your height, weight and blood pressure
• answer your questions

They ask personal questions to give you the right care, not to judge you. Being honest helps them help you.

Will there be an exam?

Many first visits for teens don't include an internal pelvic exam. One may be suggested if you have symptoms like unusual pain, discharge or bleeding.

If an exam is needed, the doctor should explain what's involved and ask for your consent. It may include:

• an external check of the vulva
• a speculum exam, where a smooth instrument is gently inserted into the vagina to see the cervix
• an internal exam, where the doctor feels the womb and ovaries with gloved fingers and a hand on your tummy

It may feel uncomfortable or a little strange, but it shouldn't be very painful. Tell them if it hurts. You can ask for a smaller speculum, ask for a chaperone, or ask them to stop at any time.

Pap smears and cervical screening

Cervical screening (a Pap or smear test) checks for changes in the cells of the cervix and, in many places, for HPV. It usually isn't done in teenagers.

The starting age depends on where you live. In the US, it's generally recommended from 21. In the UK, the NHS invites people from age 25. Your doctor can tell you the guidelines where you are.

Privacy and bringing someone

You can bring a parent, carer or friend, or go on your own. Many doctors will ask to speak to you alone for part of the appointment so you can talk freely.

What stays confidential depends on your age and local laws, and there are some limits, for example if a doctor thinks you're at risk of serious harm. If privacy matters to you, it's fine to ask at the start: 'What will stay between us?'

How to prepare

• Track your periods for a few months — start dates, how long they last and any pain
• Write down your questions so you don't forget them
• Know your medicines and any allergies
• Wear comfortable clothes, such as a skirt or loose trousers
• You don't need to shave or wax, and you can still go if you have your period, unless you're told otherwise

It's normal to feel nervous. Telling the doctor 'I'm a bit anxious' can help them slow down and explain more.

When to get help sooner

Don't wait for a routine visit if you have periods so painful you miss school, very heavy bleeding, no periods by about age 15, unusual discharge, sores or itching, or you think you could be pregnant. Get urgent help for sudden severe tummy pain, very heavy bleeding with dizziness, or if you've been sexually assaulted.