Your first visit to the gynaecologist – what do you need to know?

When should you visit a gynaecologist for the first time?

There is no set age for your first visit to a gynaecologist. The best time depends on the young woman’s individual needs. Some may wish to be prescribed the pill, whilst others may have symptoms they would like to have checked out. It is often recommended that this first visit take place between the ages of 18 and 20, if there has been no previous reason for a gynaecological examination (e.g. contraception). From this age onwards, the risk of cancer of the female reproductive organs increases, and a gynaecological examination offers preventive care in this regard.

When is it essential to see a gynaecologist?

Apart from your own desire to see a gynaecologist, there are certain symptoms that a woman should definitely have checked by a specialist. These include symptoms such as:

• pain in the lower abdomen
• severe pain or bleeding outside your period
• unusual menstrual symptoms (e.g. periods lasting longer than ten days or occurring at intervals of less than 25 days)
• A missed period lasting longer than 30 days
• no menstruation after the age of 15
• Frequent pain during or after sex
• Bleeding after sexual intercourse
• Itching and heavy discharge
• Discomfort when passing urine or having a bowel movement
• Side effects of contraceptives

How do you prepare for a gynaecologist’s appointment?

Generally speaking, no special preparation is required, but it can be helpful to draw up a list of your own questions in advance. Young girls can seek support from more experienced friends or their mother. Important information for the gynaecologist includes:

• Date of your first period
• Date of your last period
• Length of your cycle

What is the ‘Girls’ Consultation’?

The ‘Girls’ Consultation’ is an initiative of the Professional Association of Austrian Gynaecologists, which gives young girls the opportunity to obtain information from a gynaecologist – initially without a physical examination – and to get to know the doctor.

At www.maedchensprechstunde.com, you can find gynaecologists who offer this service, as well as further information about your first visit to the gynaecologist.

What happens during the first appointment with a gynaecologist?

During the first visit, the doctor will take time for a detailed discussion. The focus will be on the young woman’s questions and concerns. The gynaecologist will also ask about the young woman’s menstrual cycle and provide information on contraception and the HPV vaccine. Whether a gynaecological examination takes place afterwards depends on the young woman’s wishes.

What questions does the gynaecologist ask?

It is important for the gynaecologist to find out everything about the specifics of the individual menstrual cycle. The doctor will ask about the following points:

• The date of the first period
• Whether the periods are regular or irregular
• Duration of the bleeding
• Heaviness of the bleeding
• Date of the last period

In addition, the specialist will ask:

• Whether you have already had sexual intercourse (this is important for the type of examination)
• Whether you have any symptoms or medical conditions (including in your family)
• Whether there is a suspicion of pregnancy

These questions help the gynaecologist to gain a comprehensive picture of the young woman’s state of health and to ensure the best possible advice and treatment.

What topics does the gynaecologist discuss with young women?

The gynaecologist provides young women with information on the following topics in particular:

• The procedure for a gynaecological examination
• Contraception and various contraceptive methods
• Sexuality and sexual health
• Questions relating to the menstrual cycle
• HPV vaccination

What happens during a gynaecological examination?

During a gynaecological examination, various parts of the body are examined:

• Lower abdomen: The doctor feels the abdomen to detect any possible abnormalities.
• External genitalia: These are visually examined for any external changes such as redness, abnormalities or injuries.
• Vagina and cervix: This is done by inserting a speculum into the vagina. For girls who have not yet had sexual intercourse, smaller speculums are used, and it should not be painful.
• Palpation: The doctor carefully inserts two fingers into the vagina to feel the vaginal walls and the pelvic floor, whilst simultaneously palpating the abdomen to examine the uterus. Gloves are worn during this procedure.

For women aged 18 and over, a cervical smear (PAP smear) is also taken from the cervix. In addition, the breasts and armpits are palpated to detect any lumps or hard areas. An ultrasound scan of the uterus and ovaries may also be carried out to obtain a more detailed picture.

Do parents need to come along to the gynaecologist’s appointment?

Whether to bring your mother or another trusted person along to the gynaecologist’s appointment is a personal decision. However, many gynaecologists recommend it, as things can be forgotten in the excitement and a three-way discussion often helps to clarify matters. It is also helpful to have a second person present to listen to the gynaecologist’s advice and perhaps take some notes.

5 tips for parents

Parents can support their daughters by:

• Addressing topics such as sexuality and contraception in good time and providing information about them
• helping them develop a positive body image
• informing them about what to expect during a visit to the gynaecologist
• accompanying them if their daughter wishes
• answering all their questions afterwards

How do you find a good gynaecologist?

For many young girls, their mother’s gynaecologist is the first point of contact. On DocFinder, you can find plenty of information about gynaecologists in your area.