First Gynecologic Exam

Part of growing up is getting to know your body and its uniqueness.  Taking care of your body involves making good decisions.  These decisions can and should be discussed with your health care physician to ensure you get the best care possible.

OB/GYN physicians are doctors that specialize in the care of women of all ages.  Girls should have their first gynecologic visit between the ages of 13 to 15.  This does NOT necessarily mean you will have to have a pelvic exam, but may just include getting to know your physician and discussing topics of interest or concern.  Feeling nervous about your first visit is perfectly normal and making sure your physician knows that this is your first visit is important.

What can you expect at your first visit?

You should expect discussion of your concerns, behavioral risks and how to stay healthy.  You may also be asked personal questions about your medical history, family history, menstrual cycles and  whether or not you are having or plan on having sexual intercourse.  Having an honest discussion with your physician is key to having a good relationship and to acheive good care.  If you have any concerns over confidentiality, please discuss this with your physician as most information can be kept confidential.

What kind of exams may be performed at the first visit?

Your physician may feel it is necessary to perform a general physcial exam and/or pelvic exam.  Feel free to have a close friend or family member with you at the time of your exam if you would feel more comfortable.

A general physical exam includes listening to your heart and lungs, visualizing your skin, checking for stomach problems and checking your limbs for muscle weakness or problems.

A pelvic exam includes looking at your vulva (see image below of female genitals), looking in the vagina with a speculum and checking your internal pelvic organs with a gloved hand.  The exam internally invloves your physician placing one or two gloved and lubricated fingers into the vagina and then using the other hand to push externally on your abdomen (see the pelvic exam illustration below).

A pap smear may be performed while the physician is looking in the vagina.  This involves a sampling of the cells of the cervix with a very small spatula and brush.  A pap smear is a screening test for cervical cancer and pre-cancer changes and is usually done on a yearly basis after a woman becomes sexually active.  While this exam is very personal it should NOT be painful.  If you experience pain, please tell your physician right away.  Please see the image below for details of the pap test.

Are there any ways to get more prepared for your first pelvic exam?

Informing yourself about the components of the exam is important and reviewing what will occur with your physician before the exam is important too.  A family friend, mother or close friend may be a good source of information as well.  Also, having had something in the vagina, like tampons or sex, will make your pap smear and pelvic exam easier.

Having a good FIRST gynecologic exam is important to establishing a long, trusting relationship with your OB/GYN doctor.

Please call us to schedule your appointment or to ask any other questions - all questions are welcomed!