When should you start seeing an OB-GYN? (Asking for a friend... or a teenager)

Talking about reproductive health can feel awkward. Whether you’re a teen, a mom of a teen or an adult who has been avoiding the OB-GYN, it’s time to talk about when to make that first visit and why it’s not nearly as scary as you might think.

So, when should someone see a gynecologist?

The general recommendation from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) is that girls should have their first OB-GYN visit between ages 13 and 15. Yes, really. Even if everything seems fine. Even if they're not sexually active. Even if their biggest health concern is choosing between strawberry or vanilla lip balm.

This first visit is more of a get-to-know-you than a full exam. Think of it like a meet-and-greet with someone who can help them understand their body, answer questions honestly and offer support that doesn’t come with a side of parental awkwardness.

Wait, are they going to do that exam?

Let’s clear this up: A first visit does NOT usually include a pelvic or vaginal exam. Unless there’s a specific concern (we’ll get to that), the doctor might do a general physical, check blood pressure and ask about periods, cramps or other symptoms. But the dreaded stirrups? Probably not happening.

In fact, unless a teen is having problems, like heavy or painful periods, unusual discharge, or is sexually active and needs birth control or STI testing, a speculum exam is not usually needed.

Reasons to go sooner rather than later

There are a few situations when it’s smart to schedule that visit earlier:

• Painful or irregular periods: If your teen is missing school, curled up with a heating pad monthly or bleeding heavily, an OB-GYN can help.
• No period by age 15: If there’s no sign of menstruation by this point, it’s time to check in.
• Concerns about development: Whether it’s early breast development or lack of it, OB-GYNs can offer reassurance or investigate if something's off.
• Questions about sexuality, gender identity or birth control: These topics can be hard to bring up at home. A gynecologist can provide a safe, nonjudgmental space.
• Sexual activity: If someone becomes sexually active (or even thinks they might be soon), they should be seen for information on protection, STI testing and more. No judgment, just facts and support.

For the parents (and the mortified teens)

If you’re a parent reading this: it’s OK if your teen doesn’t want to tell you everything. And it’s more than OK to not be their go-to expert on tampon technique, HPV and birth control methods. That’s what an OB-GYN can help with.

Give them the privacy and freedom to ask their questions without feeling weird. You don’t have to be in the exam room (unless they want you to be) and you don’t have to know everything they talk about (unless it involves something serious or unsafe).

Trust goes a long way, both between you and your teen and between your teen and their health care provider.

Bottom line

Seeing an OB-GYN early in life helps build a foundation of confidence and knowledge, whether it’s managing period pain, talking about sex or just learning what’s normal. SIU Medicine OB-GYN providers are here for it all, at every age and stage of a woman’s life.

And if you’re still nervous about that first appointment (even if you’re 42 and scheduling your own), just remember: they’ve seen it all. Literally. You’re not going to shock them.

Now, go ahead. Book the appointment: 217.545.8000.