Gynecological examination is a routine examination that girls should begin to run from 12-15 years. This examination is made to an obstetrician–gynecologist (ob-gyn), a doctor specialized in the health care of women.
Often girls get nervous at the first visit, but don’t worry. You can discuss it with your doctor and he/she will help you to feel comfortable before you start your check.
You may carry out some tests on the first visit. Most often, these exams are performed:
- general physical exam
- external genital exam
- pelvic exam
- pap test
During the general exam, your height, weight, and blood pressure will be checked. The doctor looks at the vulva and he/she may give you a mirror so that you can look at the vulva as well.
The pelvic exam has three parts:
- Check of vulva
- Check of vagina and cervix with a speculum (a tool used to open vagina’s sides).
- Check of internal organs by means of one or two gloved and lubricated fingers positioned in the vagina up to the cervix.
Starting from 21 years, you can also do a Pap test: gynecologist takes a sample of cells from your cervix using a kind of toothbrush. This sample is then analyzed by a microscope to look for any changes and abnormalities in the cervix that may lead to cancer.
If you lead an active sex life, you can run tests for certain sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Most of test that adolescents need can be made by the doctor with a urine sample. You can also perform some immunizations.
Usually, there is no need to have a pelvic exam at the first visit unless you are experiencing problems, such as abnormal bleeding or pain. This means that during the first gynecological examination you can just talk to your doctor, if you prefer. He/she will ask you some questions that may seem very personal (sexual activity, menstruation) but are useful to understand if you are in good health, also points out that the doctor is bound by professional secrecy. You will be able to ask any questions you want to your gynecologist. Usually girls of your age ask questions about cramps and problems with menstruation, mood swings, acne, weight, sex, pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases.
WHO – Department of Reproductive Health and Research (RHR)
http://www.who.int/reproductivehealth/topics/en/