When should my daughter have her first Pap smear?
age 21
According to ACOG guidelines, PAP smears should begin at age 21, regardless of when a girl becomes sexually active.
When should my daughter see a gynecologist?
between
What is the right age to take this step? The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that girls first see a gynecologist when they’re between the ages of 13 and 15. Most girls will not need a pelvic exam during this first visit, though.
When should you go to the gynecologist for the first time?
13 and 15
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends girls have their first ob/gyn appointment between the ages of 13 and 15, with a yearly wellness visit after that.
Do virgins get Pap smears?
Do virgins need Pap smears? Answer From Tatnai Burnett, M.D. Yes. Doctors recommend routine cervical cancer screening, regardless of your sexual history.
Can I get a Pap smear at 16?
In the past, many health care providers used to recommend that teens have a Pap smear at 16 or 18. Now, however, the American College of Physicians does not recommend any routine gynecologic exams for teens at low risk of having the HPV or other sexually transmitted infections.
When should a girl have her first pelvic exam?
These are recommended starting at age 21 for healthy women. But a girl who has problems like heavy bleeding, painful periods, or unusual vaginal discharge might need a pelvic exam sooner.
Are there pediatric gynecologists?
Pediatric and adolescent gynecologists have specialized training to provide comprehensive gynecologic care from birth to young adulthood. To become a pediatric and adolescent gynecologist, physicians must complete a residency program in obstetrics and gynecology, followed by a PAG fellowship training program.
Does gynecologist know if you’re virgin?
A gynecologist can’t tell if you are a virgin by doing a physical exam because of the variation in different hymens and the absence of a hymen isn’t an indicator of sexual activity. In general, a pelvic exam or a vaginal exam cannot reveal with absolute certainty that a woman is a virgin or has been sexually active.
Why do Pap smears hurt?
When Pap smears are uncomfortable, it’s often because there’s a sensation of pressure in the pelvic region. Urinating beforehand can relieve some of this pressure. In some cases, your doctor might request a urine sample, so be sure to ask if it’s OK to use the restroom beforehand.
Do teenagers need a Pap smear?
Who Should Get a Pap Smear? Teen girls don’t need to get Pap smears unless their doctors think something’s wrong. Once a girl turns 21, she should start getting regular Pap smears as a way to monitor her health. Women in their 20s with normal Pap smear results should have the test every 3 years.