When should a female start seeing a gynecologist?

When should a female start seeing a gynecologist?

With several selections in healthcare service providers and specialties, establishing who to see and when can be complex. As an OB-GYN provider, among the most typical inquiries I speak with patients is, "What are the differences between the solutions provided by a gynecology supplier versus a family medicine company?" The second most common is, "When should my little girl begin seeing a gynecology carrier versus her doctor or family medicine supplier?" Both of these are superb questions. However, the solutions are not as simple as one could hope.


Gynecology or Family Medicine?


Both divisions can finish preventive health and wellness exams for females. Both divisions can screen for wellness illness. So, when do you see a gynecology provider as well as when should you see a family medicine provider?


Family Medicine is best matched if:


You have a chronic clinical problem that needs medicine or routine lab work. Examples would be diabetic issues, hypertension or cholesterol as well as chronic pain.

You have an intense condition that could call for anti-biotics. Instances consist of ear infections, strep throat, cellulitis or top respiratory signs and symptoms.

You have any kind of brand-new beginning of pain or recent injury.

Gynecology is finest fit if:


You have any questions or worries relating to the female reproductive system. This includes breasts, womb, ovaries and also vulva. It can additionally include some urological or intestinal signs.

You have any kind of menstruation, maternity, fertility or birth control concerns or concerns.

You have any sex-related health problems. Examples consist of sex drive, pain or abuse.

You are looking for a preventive health and wellness exam as well as age-appropriate screenings.

There is some overlap in services given by Family Medicine as well as Gynecology. Instances can include birth control, thyroid condition as well as state of mind changes. In these situations, it's ideal to begin with whomever you feel most comfy with, and after that service provider can direct you better if they can not totally resolve your worries.


At what age should a female see a gynecology company?


Between the ages of 11 as well as 18, a woman might possibly see a pediatrician, a family medicine carrier and/or a gynecology company. The majority of healthcare needs can be dealt with by family medicine or pediatric service providers. Nonetheless, there are circumstances when it would certainly be appropriate to have a younger patient see a gynecology carrier, such as:


Delayed the age of puberty (no breast tissue adjustments before age 14) or delayed menarche (no menstruations prior to age 16).

Agonizing menstruations, particularly if missing out on college or tasks because of symptoms.

Incapable to put on a tampon.

Any kind of sexual health issues or contraceptive demands.

When to begin Pap smears.


It's important to recognize Pap smear screening recommendations have actually altered countless times over the last years. Consequently, many mommies continue to be unclear as to when their child must start this testing. The present recommendation is to begin Pap smear screenings at the age of 21, no matter sex or birth control demands.


There are times when a pelvic examination (analysis of the genitalia) might be required, however this is not for Pap smear screening purposes. Additionally, the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination is suggested throughout the teen years to assist protect against cervical cancer cells in the future. Your health care carrier can offer you even more information pertaining to HPV vaccination at your consultation