Gynecology for Younger Women (16-25)

There are a variety of gynecology conditions and concerns that are specific to women of a young age. It is very common for ladies to have lots of questions regarding their gynecological health as they begin to make regular appointments with their local gynecologist.

Yearly Exams

An important part of staying healthy is to have regular gynecological exams beginning at age 21, or within three years of becoming sexually active.

Preventive care includes:

  • Discussion of health topics based on your age and risk factors
  • Exams and screening tests
  • Immunizations

What to Expect for Your Annual Gynecology Exams

In addition to checking your height, weight, and blood pressure, your gynecologist will ask you questions about your general health, menstrual cycle, and sexual activities. During your exam, your doctor will perform both a breast and pelvic exam to determine if their are any abnormalities of these areas.

During each of these evaluations you can expect your gynecologist to gently assess the breasts and vagina using their fingers to feel for any irregular lumps or issues. It is normal to feel a bit of discomfort during this process, but at no point should they become painful.

Contraception Counseling

Birth control offers young women more than a solution to unwanted pregnancy. Contraceptives can also provide significant relief from common conditions such as:

  • Irregular menstrual cycles
  • Hormonal acne
  • Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
  • Migraines that worsen during your period
  • Anemia
  • Endometriosis

Types of contraception include the oral contraceptive, Depo-Provera shot, Norplant, IUD, contraceptive patch, and vaginal ring.

STD Screenings

Regular screenings for common STDs are highly recommended after an individual engages in sexual activities with a new partner or after unprotected sex. Not all sexually transmitted diseases or illnesses will present noticeable symptoms, which is exactly why testing is so critical.

Both testing and treatment for common STDs like gonorrhea and chlamydia are quite simple. Dr. Riley and her team are also able to perform additional tests if the situation calls for further analysis.

Be sure to schedule an appointment if you begin to notice any of the following, as they are often signs of a sexually transmitted disease:

  • Pain during intercourse
  • Itchiness of the genital area
  • Frequent and/or painful urination
  • Unusual smell or color associated with your discharge
  • A fever
  • Sores, blisters, or rashes existing on or around the genitals

Not treating a sexually transmitted disease can lead to a severe pelvic infection, reoccurring hospitalization, infertility, ectopic pregnancy, and in rare cases death.