“Parents (mine at least) seem to be under the illusion that silence about sex is safer than talking. I think Sex Ed should start with the parents talking with kids. ”
—Sarah, 17, AL
What exactly is a gynecologist and when should I go?
A gynecologist is a doctor who specializes in women’s reproductive and sexual health care. That means he or she takes care of pregnant women during their pregnancy. (That’s the reproductive part.) They also do routine exams and runs tests to check for cervical cancer. A gynecologist can also prescribe birth control methods, test for and treat sexually transmitted diseases, and test for pregnancy.
One of the best ways a girl can protect her sexual and reproductive health is to have regular visits with a gynecologist. It is best to talk to your gynecologist before you start having sex so that you can ask him or her any questions you might have, and get birth control if you will need it. Even if you don't go then, it is very important that you have a first appointment no more than three years after you start having sex, or when you turn 21.
It’s a good idea to establish a relationship with your health care provider, whether it’s a gynecologist or nurse practitioner. That way, when you have concerns or questions, you have someone you trust who can help.
To find a gynecologist, click here.
One of the best ways a girl can protect her sexual and reproductive health is to have regular visits with a gynecologist. It is best to talk to your gynecologist before you start having sex so that you can ask him or her any questions you might have, and get birth control if you will need it. Even if you don't go then, it is very important that you have a first appointment no more than three years after you start having sex, or when you turn 21.
It’s a good idea to establish a relationship with your health care provider, whether it’s a gynecologist or nurse practitioner. That way, when you have concerns or questions, you have someone you trust who can help.
To find a gynecologist, click here.
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Your Comments
question
Posted by: sarakate on Jul 5th, 2007 2:23am
can a gynecologist tell if you are a hermaphrodite?
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Question: Reponse
Posted by: StacieS on Jul 5th, 2007 1:40pm
Hi there. Yes, a doctor could tell if a person is a
hermaphrodite if they run the appropriate tests. Sometimes
though it can be very difficult to tell if someone is a
hermaphrodite (also called intersexed) and a person often
doesn't discover this about themselves until puberty or
later in life. Some may never realize it if a doctor doesn't
run the rights tests. Being intersexed can be very obvious
in some cases or very subtle. There is great information at
this Web site: www.isna.org. Take care!