Mums and Daughters

Talking about periods

Her period and puberty

Talking about puberty

Talking about daily hygiene

Does she need to see a gynaecologist?

Going to the gynaecologist is never on the top of any woman's wish list. However, it's necessary from time to time, and as you probably already know, it's really not that bad. So what’s the best parenting advice for when your daughter should start seeing one?
Unless your daughter has a specific concern or a problem, she should begin going to the gynaecologist at either age 18 or when she becomes sexually active, whichever comes first. You can accompany your daughter on her first visit, or encourage her to go on her own – whatever works best for her. It's the same for making that first appointment. After that initial visit however, she should be encouraged to do this task on her own, since looking after (and advocating for) her own health is an important life skill.

Reasons to make an appointment (for daughters)

If your daughter is 14 and hasn't noticed any pubertal changes
If your daughter is 16 and hasn't had a period
If your daughter is contemplating becoming sexually active and needs to discuss contraception and safe sex habits.

Other reasons to make an appointment

If you're experiencing severe menstrual cramps or any other pelvic pains
If bleeding is extra heavy, unusual, or lasts more than seven days
If you're bothered by vaginal itching, redness, sores, swelling, unusual odour or discharge
If you think that you are pregnant
If you've been menstruating for more than a year and still have irregular periods or have missed more than three periods (you should only wait three months if you are certain that you are not pregnant. If there is a chance that you may be pregnant, you should see a doctor right away)
If you're experiencing frequent urination or a burning sensation when you urinate
If you've suffered an injury to your pelvic area
If you've had non-consensual sex
If you've had unprotected sex and are concerned about pregnancy
If you believe that you've been exposed to a sexually transmitted disease
If you notice a change in the regularity of your menstrual periods
If you think you might be entering menopause.

Sources

The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), Education Pamphlet AP150, Your First Gynecologic Visit – Especially for Teens

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