Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology

Care of patients from birth through age 20 is the realm of pediatric and adolescent gynecology. Unique problems in girls prior to reaching puberty require special experience and expertise. Common problems include vaginal bleeding, abnormal vaginal discharge, and anatomic genital problems. Each aspect of the delivery of gynecologic care in these age groups is designed to meet the needs of the pediatric or adolescent patient with the goal of making the gynecologic experience relatively pleasant.

In the adolescent, guidelines for the first gynecologic exam are now established by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Problems related to painful periods, excessive male hormone production, eating disorders and sports-related problems are included, as well as defects involving the uterus and other aspects of the reproductive tract. Ovarian abnormalities require special expertise. Physicians possessing expertise in pediatric and adolescent gynecology are an integral part of the services we provide.