Adolescent Gynecology in Rochester, NY

What is Adolescent Gynecology?

Our gynecologists at Women Gynecology & Childbirth Associates, P.C. provide routine health care for teens and young adults, as well as adults. We want to work with you and your family to meet all of your health care needs: physical, mental, and emotional. We also provide Pediatric Gynecology care as Dr. Harris is one of the only board-certified Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecologists in the Rochester area.

Young adults need specialized medical care, and a doctor with whom they can discuss anything, from acute and chronic illness, health maintenance and preventive care, to sexual concerns and emotional problems. Parents of teenagers also need special guidance and support through these years. Our practice goal is to provide comprehensive health care to teens and their families.

If you begin to notice any abnormalities, or your child is in need of annual gynecologic care, please call (585) 244-3430 and schedule your appointment at our gynecology office in Rochester, NY.

What Topics are Addressed During the Appointment?

Early on, individuals will often see a family medicine doctor or a pediatrician who oversees their health and wellness.

However, there may come a time when you may need to seek help from a gynecologist that specializes in helping younger patients feel comfortable and cared for.

Some of the Diagnoses we evaluate and Treat at WGCA as related to Adolescent Gynecology are:

• Menstrual problems (heavy, frequent, or irregular)
• Dysmenorrhea (painful period)
• Contraceptives, including in adolescents with complex family planning needs
• Long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCS), such as IUDs implants
• Delayed puberty
• Hirsutism – excessive hair growth
• Ovarian Cysts
• PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome)
• Endometriosis
• Vulvar Abnormalities
• Vaginal Discharge, Infections, Ulcers
• Protect against sexually-transmitted diseases
• Chronic pelvic pain
• Surgical Management of ovarian cysts (among others)

Additionally, as teens begin to develop into adults and take more responsibility for their lives, we ask for more input from them about their health. We will meet with the teen patient privately first to gain their trust and confidence. Talking to teens without the parent also gives them a chance to ask questions or give information they may feel self-conscious about. Teens often have questions or concerns that they may feel embarrassed to talk about in front of their parents. It is important to give them enough freedom to grow, but not so much that they get involved in the wrong activities.

Many teenagers and young adults experiment with high-risk behaviors that can lead to serious problems. In addition to domestic abuse, and bullying, data shows that of students in New York state high schools (excluding NYC):

• 46% have tried cigarettes
• 73% drank alcohol
• 38% have tried marijuana
• 43% have had sex

Most teenagers will hide their behavior so parents are not the first to find out. Our goal is to help identify these problems before they become too big, and to help prevent them. To do this, we must give them a reason to trust us. Often times, a pelvic exam will not be necessary at the time of the appointment. If a pelvic exam is indicated, the provider will discuss this with the patient and assess their comfort with this.

When Should I Have My First Gynecology Visit?

Dr. Harris is one of the few locally boarded Adolescent gynecology providers and has a kind, friendly, and welcoming demeanor to help ease any discomfort during your visit. All our providers are able to diagnose and treat conditions related to adolescent gynecology and offer respect and the highest quality of care.

We take our time with each adolescent patient, getting to know them, gaining their trust, and getting a detailed history to be able to accurately diagnose a given problem and create an appropriate treatment plan.

Many young patients have their first visit between 13-18 years of age. If the young woman is sexually active or has issues arising earlier, you may see a gynecologist sooner.

The American Congress of Obstetrics and Gynecology recommends annual pap tests to screen for cervical cancer starting at age 21, regardless of sexual activity. But issues can come up long before then.

What Can I Expect At My Appointment?

The first visit may be just a talk between you and your doctor. It is important to find someone you can trust, so you can have an open conversation.

Your doctor may ask a lot of questions about you that may seem personal. For example, you may be asked questions about your menstrual period or sexual activities (including vaginal, oral, or anal sex). Your doctor needs to ask these questions to best know how to care for you.

Giving honest answers to these questions is key to your care. If you are concerned about confidentiality, you and your doctor should talk about it before you answer any questions. Much of the information you share can be kept confidential. 

After you have had a consultation or conversation, you may have another appointment for future visits.  This may include an exam, vaccinations, or prescription for medications or birth control, depending on your need. You can ask questions about your body, growing up, and sex.

Will I Need an Exam?

Many concerns can be addressed without an exam. Your gynecologist will put your needs first and make sure you feel heard and cared for.

If there are some issues that need a closer look, your doctor may recommend:

• A weight, height, and blood pressure check
• A urine sample
• If you are sexually active, you may have tests for certain sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
• Your doctor may recommend an ultrasound where a jelly-like substance is put on your stomach and your doctor uses a wand to see your uterus or other organs
• You usually do not need to have a pelvic exam unless you are having problems, such as abnormal bleeding or pain

Our staff is always available to discuss health matters, and to answer questions. The WGCA staff wants to work with you to help teens and young adults make the best choices for a healthy future.