A teen’s journey to adulthood is a time of discovery. This includes learning to care for themselves and make good choices for their health. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends having a first gynecology visit between ages 13 and 15.

During this visit, the doctor will go over the patient’s health history and may do an exam. It’s also a chance to talk about skin and hormonal changes, periods, sexuality, birth control and more. Routine vaccines (shots) may be given, including HPV and flu.

Good gynecological (reproductive) health couldn’t be more important. That’s why yearly wellness exams matter so much. It’s a time to take care of yourself and get needed care and screenings. We’re here to help and be your partner in health.  

Conditions we care for include:

• Breast problems — These include cysts, lumps, hormonal changes, nipple abnormalities and infections 

• Congenital reproductive abnormalities — These include abnormal periods or problems with how the reproductive organs developed in the uterus 

• Early or delayed puberty — Early puberty starts before age 8; delayed puberty begins after age 13  

• Endometriosis — A painful disorder that causes tissue to grow outside the uterus; it can also make it difficult to get pregnant 

• Fibroids (tumors made of muscle) — These can grow in the uterus and keep you from getting pregnant  

• Ovarian cysts and tumors — Pockets of tissues or cells that are in or on the ovaries; they can be filled with fluid (cysts) or solid (tumors)

• Pelvic pain (pain in the lower belly) — Caused by conditions like cramps related to your period, fibroids and more 

• Periods that are heavy, not regular or absent  

• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) — A condition that can lead to cysts in or on the ovaries 

• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) — Bacteria or viruses that spread through sexual contact; these include HIV, HPV, syphilis and genital herpes 

• Skin conditions of the vulva (the opening to the vagina) — These include rashes and vaginitis, which can cause pain and itching 

• Unusual vaginal discharge — A discharge of fluid caused by yeast or other conditions  

• Vulvovaginitis — An infection of the vagina or the opening of the vagina, usually caused by a yeast infection

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In-office exams and services: 

• Annual wellness exam — This important physical includes breast and pelvic exams and a Pap smear 

• Breast screening —Includes mammograms (breast X-rays) and ultrasounds to help find breast cancer or other concerns early 

• Colposcopy — A test that might be done if a Pap smear is abnormal; it involves taking a close look at the cervix (the opening to the uterus)

• Endometrial biopsy — A small piece of tissue is taken from the lining of the uterus; the goal is to check for abnormal cells or the effects of hormones 

• HPV vaccine — A shot given to patients starting at age 11 to protect against human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted disease

• LEEP — A procedure to remove precancerous cells from the cervix  

• Long-acting reversible contraceptives — Forms of birth control that are implanted in the body; they can stay in place for years and be removed anytime

• Pap smear — A test that looks for abnormal cells in the cervix; usually done every three to five years, starting at age 21

• Therapeutic injections — Shots given to ease pain and discomfort

• Vulvar biopsy — Checks for abnormal cells in the outer part of the genitals

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Tenaya Surgery Center services include:

• D/C hysteroscopy — A surgery to examine the lower part of the uterus and remove tissue; usually done in cases of abnormal bleeding, miscarriage or when abnormal cells are found

• Endometrial ablation — A surgery to remove a thin layer of tissue from the uterus; it reduces heavy periods in those who don’t plan to have children

• Myomectomy — A surgery to remove fibroids (growths) from the uterus

• Tubal ligation — A permanent form of birth control done by closing the fallopian tubes