21 Reasons to See a GYN Before Turning 21

 

Although most teens don’t need to have a Pap test until they are 21 years old, there are at least 21 reasons to see a gynecologist before then.

Health

  • Learn about healthy lifestyles and how to feel good about yourself.
  • Discuss good habits for healthy bones.
  • Learn if you have a urinary tract infection (UTI) and the treatment options.
  • Get treatment for vaginal itching, discharge, or other symptoms.

Periods

  • Learn if your periods are normal.
  • Get relief if your periods are painful.
  • Find out why your periods are too heavy.
  • Discuss the timing of your periods and why bleeding may occur in between.
  • Learn ways to deal with premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

Sexuality & Relationships

  • Learn how to have healthy romantic relationships.
  • Learn what it means to be in a consensual relationship.
  • Ask questions about what it means to be lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer (LGBTQ).
  • Learn about safe sex.
  • Talk about how your reproductive system works.

Pregnancy

  • Discuss birth control options.
  • Discuss the ideal time to start a family.
  • Get tested for pregnancy.
  • Weigh your options if you get pregnant.

Sexually Transmitted Infections

  • Learn how to lower your risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
  • Get tested for STIs and HIV if you are sexually active.
  • Get the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine.

 

Information gathered from https://www.acog.org/womens-health/infographics/21-reasons-to-see-a-gynecologist-before-you-turn-21