Adolescent Care & First Pap Smear

When should young women start to see a gynecologist?

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that young women have their first visit with a gynecologist between the ages of 13-15. These early visits don’t necessarily include pelvic exams or Pap smears. Generally, women have their first pelvic exams and Pap smears around the age of 21, although sexually active adolescents should start to have these internal exams earlier.

Why should adolescents see a gynecologist?

Young women benefit from seeing a gynecologist in many ways. Dr. Tajzoy can educate young women about their bodies and the changes they can expect throughout puberty and adolescence. He also provides immunizations, including Gardasil®, which prevents many strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV).

Dr. Tajzoy also provides advice on how adolescent girls can take care of their bodies and protect their sexual health. He’s a valuable resource for young women to ask questions that they might not be comfortable talking to their parents about and can provide more accurate information than what they’ll learn from friends or the internet.

Also, Dr. Tajzoy wants to develop long-term relationships with his patients. Annual well-woman exams are an opportunity for young women to get used to making time to check in on their health and have preventive screenings as they become appropriate. Dr. Tajzoy gets to know his patients and keeps meticulous records so that if something changes in a young woman’s health, he will know and can provide additional diagnostic testing and treatment.

What is the HPV vaccine?

Dr. Tajzoy provides the HPV vaccine to all women under the age of 25. Currently, nearly every sexually active adult contracts HPV at some point during their lives.

While only a few strains of the virus are linked to cervical cancer, there’s no known cure for HPV. The Gardasil vaccine can protect your daughter from this disease and reduce her risk for abnormal Pap smear results and cervical cancer.

The vaccine is most effective when it’s provided before a young woman becomes sexually active and is often delivered around the age of 11-12. Young women under the age of 14 can have the immunization in two shots spaced 6-12 months apart. Young women who are older than 14 will need three injections over a period of six months.

If you want a professional, but also approachable and friendly gynecologist who is committed to protecting your daughter’s health, call Emil Tajzoy, MD, or schedule a consultation online today.