Back-to-school season is a great time to take care of annual health checkups—including your teen’s first visit to the gynecologist. While it might feel a little early, starting gynecologic care during adolescence helps build trust, normalize body literacy, and promote long-term reproductive health. At A Woman’s Place in Naples, FL, we’re here to help teens (and their parents) feel prepared and empowered every step of the way.
When Should a Teen First Visit a Gynecologist?
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that girls have their first gynecology visit between ages 13 and 15. This doesn’t mean a pelvic exam—unless there’s a specific concern. Instead, the first visit focuses on education, support, and open communication.
What Happens at the First OB/GYN Visit for a Teen?
This appointment is typically gentle and informative. Here’s what your teen can expect:
- Medical history review: Including periods, family health, and any current symptoms or concerns.
- General physical exam: Often includes weight, blood pressure, and sometimes a brief external check if needed.
- Discussion topics: Normal puberty, periods, cramps, hygiene, safe sex, and birth control options.
- Vaccination review: The visit is a great opportunity to discuss or start the HPV vaccine.
Most importantly, this visit gives your teen a chance to ask questions privately and start building a relationship with their provider.
How to Talk to Your Teen Before the Appointment
- Normalize the experience: Let them know this is part of growing up and keeping their body healthy.
- Answer questions honestly: Teens may be nervous—especially about what to expect during the exam.
- Give them space: Remind them that the doctor will speak with them one-on-one for part of the visit to ensure privacy.
- Avoid judgment: If the conversation includes birth control or sex, keep communication open and supportive.
Why Early Education Matters
Introducing gynecologic care early helps your teen:
- Understand their menstrual cycle and what’s normal or not
- Learn how to care for their body with accurate, age-appropriate info
- Feel empowered to speak up about symptoms or concerns
- Access preventive care like the HPV vaccine and STI counseling
A Place Where Teens Feel Safe
At A Woman’s Place in Naples, FL, we provide compassionate, confidential care for adolescent patients. Whether it’s your teen’s first visit or their first time bringing up a health concern, we’re committed to helping them feel seen, heard, and respected.
Schedule an appointment for your teen today and let us help them start their health journey with confidence.
Further Reading
ACOG- Your First Gynecological Visit
Back-to-school season is a great time to take care of annual health checkups—including your teen’s first visit to the gynecologist. While it might feel a little early, starting gynecologic care during adolescence helps build trust, normalize body literacy, and promote long-term reproductive health. At A Woman’s Place in Naples, FL, we’re here to help teens (and their parents) feel prepared and empowered every step of the way.
When Should a Teen First Visit a Gynecologist?
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that girls have their first gynecology visit between ages 13 and 15. This doesn’t mean a pelvic exam—unless there’s a specific concern. Instead, the first visit focuses on education, support, and open communication.
What Happens at the First OB/GYN Visit for a Teen?
This appointment is typically gentle and informative. Here’s what your teen can expect:
- Medical history review: Including periods, family health, and any current symptoms or concerns.
- General physical exam: Often includes weight, blood pressure, and sometimes a brief external check if needed.
- Discussion topics: Normal puberty, periods, cramps, hygiene, safe sex, and birth control options.
- Vaccination review: The visit is a great opportunity to discuss or start the HPV vaccine.
Most importantly, this visit gives your teen a chance to ask questions privately and start building a relationship with their provider.
How to Talk to Your Teen Before the Appointment
- Normalize the experience: Let them know this is part of growing up and keeping their body healthy.
- Answer questions honestly: Teens may be nervous—especially about what to expect during the exam.
- Give them space: Remind them that the doctor will speak with them one-on-one for part of the visit to ensure privacy.
- Avoid judgment: If the conversation includes birth control or sex, keep communication open and supportive.
Why Early Education Matters
Introducing gynecologic care early helps your teen:
- Understand their menstrual cycle and what’s normal or not
- Learn how to care for their body with accurate, age-appropriate info
- Feel empowered to speak up about symptoms or concerns
- Access preventive care like the HPV vaccine and STI counseling
A Place Where Teens Feel Safe
At A Woman’s Place in Naples, FL, we provide compassionate, confidential care for adolescent patients. Whether it’s your teen’s first visit or their first time bringing up a health concern, we’re committed to helping them feel seen, heard, and respected.
Schedule an appointment for your teen today and let us help them start their health journey with confidence.
Further Reading
ACOG- Your First Gynecological Visit
