Your First Gynecologic Visit

Many young women are unsure or nervous about their first gynecologic visit, but it is a simple, important and necessary step to a healthy lifestyle. Your first visit should occur sometime between the ages of 13 and 15, and may be as simple as talking to your gynecologist so that the two of you can get a better understanding of your needs. You may be asked some personal questions about your health, menstrual cycle and sexual activities, and it is important that you answer honestly. If you are worried about what may have to be disclosed to your parents, discuss those worries with us first, and we will explain what will be confidential and what would have to be disclosed. Depending on your needs and circumstances, you may also need to undergo a number of exams or tests, including a physical exam, breast exam, pelvic exam and pap test. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us, or talk to someone who you trust and are comfortable with about what to expect.

Your First Obstetric Visit

Congratulations on beginning this exciting part of your life! We are here to help see you through every step of your pregnancy and through the birthing process. And the first prenatal visit is often the most important, so it’s important to know what to expect.

First, we will usually need to complete an extensive medical history, which will include questions about your general health and lifestyle, your family medical history, your past pregnancies if any, and your allergies, medications, birth control and menstrual history. It is important that we get as complete an understanding as possible of your medical needs and circumstances. We will also perform a series of blood tests, not only to detect any potential problems such as anemia, but also to get vital information such as blood type, Rh-factor and blood sugar.

We will also answer any questions or address any concerns you have as well, and we encourage you to ask us anything you may have on your mind, such as questions about your diet, any needed habit changes, sexual activity, hospital routines, the delivery process, and costs of prenatal care. We recommend that you write down your list of questions in advance so that you don’t forget anything during your actual appointment. We want you to be comfortable and assured as you enter this exciting time, so we will schedule plenty of time in your appointment to answer any questions you may have.