Why do I need to have a gynecology appointment?
Your first gynecology appointment is an opportunity to talk about your development and ask any questions about your changing body and sexual health without embarrassment. Think of this visit as your first step in a lifetime of healthy habits.
Here are a few things your gynecologist can do for you:
- Provide a safe space for answering any questions you have about reproductive and sexual health or hormonal changes and puberty.
- General checkups and screening for potential health problems, like cervical or breast cancer.
- Address and treat any health concerns you may have, like worries about your period, abnormal discharge, discomfort, or pain. Some level of cramping and discomfort is normal during your period, but it’s important to know that intense pain is not and can be a symptom of manageable conditions.
- Prescribe birth control, whether it is to help prevent pregnancy or to address any health issues you are experiencing, like menstrual cramps, heavy menstrual flow, ovarian cysts or even some types of acne.
- Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) testing.
You may find it difficult to talk to your healthcare provider about symptoms, especially pain that isn’t easy to describe, particularly if they are new. However, those discussions are very important to have. Some of the possible causes for painful cramps - like endometriosis or fibroids - often get ignored even when they impact your everyday life.
Your doctor has a responsibility to provide care in a way that respects the rights, independence, dignity and diversity of all patients, including youth. Your doctor can also provide information about healthy habits and risk prevention.
When should I schedule a gynecology appointment?
Although most people won’t need to begin Pap screening for cervical cancer until around the age of 21, it is still recommended that you attend your first gynecologist visit earlier, usually between the ages of 13 and 16, even if you haven't had your period or become sexually active. There is no need to worry if you have missed this time window, but you should still consider scheduling your first visit.
If you are looking for LGBTQIA+ friendly service providers, Rainbow Health Ontario has compiled a list of health providers who have committed to providing competent and welcoming care to LGBTQIA+ people in Ontario.
How do I schedule my gynecology appointment?
You have a few options for choosing who performs your gynecologic exam.
Visit your family doctor
It isn’t always necessary to see a gynecologist or OB-GYN: your family doctor (also called a General Practitioner or GP) is qualified to provide the necessary care for any concerns about your sexual and reproductive health.
They should be able to provide birth control counselling, STI screening and internal gynecology and breast exams.
If you don’t have a family doctor yet, you can register with Health Care Connect. This program connects you to a local doctor or nurse practitioner who is accepting new patients.
If you need an appointment before finding a family doctor, you can visit a walk-in clinic. Doctors at these clinics can usually provide gynecology services. They can often refer you to a specialist if needed.
Get a referral
You can ask your family doctor to refer you to a gynecologist or an obstetrician-gynecologist (OB-GYN). An OB-GYN is a healthcare professional specializing in reproductive health. They are trained in pregnancy care, childbirth, and gynecology, which focuses on the reproductive system. Midwives are also equipped to perform routine gynecology exams.
If it makes you feel more comfortable, you can ask your doctor to refer you to a provider that meets your specific needs.
Going to a sexual health clinic
Sexual health clinics are available in many Ontario communities and are an option, especially if you feel uncomfortable reaching out to your family doctor.
You don’t need anyone’s permission to visit a sexual health clinic, and it isn’t necessary to bring anyone with you if you don’t want to.
Where can I get more information?
- Sex & U – A website developed by the Society of Obstetricians Gynaecologists of Canada that provides accurate and up-to-date information and education on topics related to sexual and reproductive health.
- Planned Parenthood Toronto - A community health centre that provides various services for youth ages 13-29. Check out their website to see which reproductive health concerns they provide care for.
- Rainbow Health Ontario - This program creates opportunities for the healthcare system to better serve LGBT2SQ communities. Its website includes a directory of health and social service providers who have committed to providing competent and welcoming care to LGBT2SQ people in Ontario.
- What can I expect from my first gynecology appointment? This article details what to expect before, during, and after your first appointment.