Part of growing up is learning to take care of yourself, your health, and thinking about making healthy decisions. One of the aspects of growing up is that first visit to your local Women’s Health Arizona branch. An obstetrician-gynecologist (ObGyn) is a physician who specializes in women’s healthcare. Girls should have their first gynecologic visit between the ages of 13 years and 15 years.
From choosing an ObGyn that you’re comfortable with, to seeing your provider yearly, to learning healthy habits, your ObGyn provider can help you through it all.
How to Choose an ObGyn
Many times a young girl will simply go where her mother goes, which is many times the same place that her grandmother goes as well. Here at WHA, we have many generations of women who have been with us for years. It’s extremely important to find a provider whom you are comfortable with, because this will be the person that you speak to about some very personal issues. You’ll need to feel like you can talk openly to your provider without fear of being judged. Our providers are here to walk you through the process with patience, understanding, and knowledge.
What to Expect at Your First Visit
One of the major fears associated with your first visit is not knowing what to expect. On your first visit, there will be a lot of talking. We want to begin building a relationship with you on that first visit, so that each time you come it will be less uncomfortable. We’ll talk about you and your family, your activities, and your personal life.
Some of the questions may seem personal, such as questions about your menstrual period or sexual activities. Our providers want to get a good understanding of how you care for yourself, what healthy or unhealthy choices you are making, and how your family stays healthy.
During your first visit you might also have certain exams. This greatly depends upon your age and if you have been sexually active. It also depends on your comfort level. These exams might include simply taking your height, weight and blood pressure, as any physician would do. There might also be a breast exam, pelvic exam, and/or Pap test. These are nothing to fear or worry about, as they are common tests that every woman receives.
Confidentiality
Another great fear that many first-time visitors to our offices have is whether their ObGyn will tell their parents. We have a confidentiality agreement with every patient, however those patients that are under 18 do not necessarily fall under certain confidentiality rules. If there is an issue that we feel is extremely important and should be shared with parents, we will do so in the most compassionate and respectful way possible to ensure that both the young patient and the parents are comfortable.
Building a Relationship
Talk to us about any concerns you have, any questions you might have, or something you might not understand. We are here for you and would like to be here for you throughout your life, from your first visit to your first baby.
You can request your first appointment right now or give any of our local branches a call during business hours.
Learn more:
If you would like to meet with a knowledgeable doctor, consider contacting Women’s Health Arizona. As Arizona’s largest ObGyn group, we’re trained and solely dedicated to delivering the best ObGyn experience in convenient and comfortable settings around Phoenix.
