Dear belle_a2,

It's recommended that all girls — regardless of their sexual orientation — start getting pelvic exams with Pap tests within three years of becoming sexually active, or by the time they're 21 — whichever comes first. Of course, if a girl is experiencing gynecological health problems before she becomes sexually active, then it's a good idea to see a health care provider, no matter how old she is.

Women who only have sex with women are not at risk for pregnancy. And their risk for certain infections — like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HIV — is lower than the risk for women who have sex with men. But unprotected oral sex does put women at risk for a number of infections, such as herpes, and some infections like the human papilloma virus (HPV), which can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact. Certain types of HPV cause cervical cancer. That's why it's important for sexually active lesbians to get gynecological exams.

To find a Planned Parenthood health center near you, call 1-800-230-PLAN or find us online.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.