Adolescent Gynecology
The medical issues related to the start of menses are usually limited to irregular, sometimes painful and heavy menses. These are treated with simple medication until your body’s biological clock regulates itself.
As the stepdad of an 18-year-old girl, I have had the unique opportunity to deal with the impact of raging hormones, mood swings, acne, and low self-esteem. With high school comes peer pressure and the desire to fit in, this often leads to the pressure associated with engaging in sexual relations.
Thankfully, all has turned out well with my first child and as a result I find it easier to address these issues with other teenagers. Although I in no way condone sex before marriage, it is your child’s right to decide, and educating them about the pitfalls of sexual relations is part of my job. I review issues such as sexually transmitted diseases, undesired pregnancy, the emotional roller coaster of relationships and self-esteem issues.
I focus on preventative measures from safe sexual practices, vaccinations, to educating young women on the physical and emotional changes that occur with becoming a teenager. Typically I speak to teenagers in private consultation so they may speak freely, knowing physician patient confidentiality will be maintained.
For those teenagers that are sexually active, parents can be assured there are birth control options for teenagers that are more convenient and reliable, allowing young women to fulfill their personal and educational goals before beginning a family.