Another question I get all the time: When should I bring in my teenage daughter for the first time? In general the answer is between 15 and 16 years old, according the the experts in adolescent gynecology. That doesn't necessarily mean they need to have a physical examination, which is what most of them are afraid of! In the majority of cases, in fact, we just have a conversation about menstruation, safe sex, contraception, substance abuse, driving safety, and general personal responsibility for one's own health and welfare as they mature. The first Pap doesn't have to be done until age 21 or within 3 years of first intercourse. Oftentimes the child has already had her HPV vaccine series, but if not we can arrange for that. STD testing is available when applicable, and we don't have a problem with prescribing hormonal contraceptives without a formal pelvic examination in the absence of any unusual personal/family history or symptoms. I think the main reason to have your daughter come in is to establish a doctor-patient relationship and an avenue through which she can access care in the future with or without mom and dad's escort. It gives her permission and encouragementto take care of herself now and forever.
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