Dear Lasha1,

It's recommended that girls start getting gynecological (GYN) exams with Pap tests within three years of becoming sexually active, or by the time they're 21 — whichever comes first. 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 can visit a gynecologist, nurse practitioner, or other health care provider to get a GYN exam. Schedule your GYN exam for a time when you will not have your period. It's recommended that women avoid having vaginal intercourse or putting anything into their vaginas for one or two days before their exams.

Some of the procedures at a GYN visit include taking your medical history (which means you'll have to answer some questions about your health), a urine test, a breast exam, and a pelvic exam. A pelvic exam is a physical examination of a woman's vulva, vagina, cervix, uterus, and ovaries. It usually includes taking cells from the cervix for a Pap test and a manual exam of the internal pelvic organs. A pelvic exam takes only a few minutes. Though it may be a bit uncomfortable, it should not be painful.

To make an appointment for a GYN exam, you can call 1-800-230-PLAN to find a Planned Parenthood health center near you.

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.