Adolescent Gynecology
Adolescents and young adults have different needs gynecologic issues compared to older adults. Our Adolescent and Young Adult Specialists have vast expertise in gynecologic conditions specific to this age group. Most adolescents and young adults may not even need a routine pelvic (internal) exam at the time of their appointment.
We understand the confidential needs of this age group, and the potential role for parents to be involved in the young person’s care.
Our specialists have experience in helping adolescents and young adults with conditions like:
- Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
- Amenorrhea (not having your period)
- Irregular Periods Painful or Heavy Periods
- Pap Smears
- Vaginal Discharge
- Testing and Treatment for STIs
- Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)
- Ovarian Cysts
- Contraceptive counseling for all forms of birth control, including IUDs and contraceptive implants
IUDs and Contraceptive Implant Care
IUDs (Intrauterine Devices) and Contraceptive Implants are safe and effective for adolescents and young adults. Currently available IUDs are much safer than the IUDs available decades ago. IUDs are also often used in the treatment of heavy menstrual bleeding, painful periods, and endometriosis as well. Our Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine Specialists are experts in procedures and management of IUDs and contraceptive implants.
We are experienced in a gentle, reassuring method of gynecologic exams that are often needed for adolescents and young adults. Pelvic exams are performed at the insertion procedure for IUDs. There is no minimum age to get an IUD or contraceptive implant. IUDs can ] be inserted when a patient is having her menstrual period, but don’t to be inserted at this time
Sexually Transmitted Infection Testing and Treatment
Adolescents and young adults may need regular sexually transmitted infection testing and treatment. Our Adolescent and Young Adult Specialists have expertise in these issues and the developmentally appropriate approach to treatment and prevention in this age group. We understand the confidential needs specific to this age group, and can support the adolescent and young adult in navigating their health care.
LGBTQ Care
Our Adolescent and Young Adult Specialists are specially trained in providing guidance, education, support and care to adolescents, young adults, and their families. We understand the need for confidential care and routinely provide confidentiality to the adolescent or young adult while also providing support to parents as needed.
Eating Disorder Management
Our adolescent and young adult specialists have extensive experience in the treatment of eating disorders on an outpatient basis, as well as for those needing residential care, day program support (PHP or IOP), and inpatient medical management. We have therapists on site who can provide short term therapy and care coordination for patients and families new to eating disorder treatment, prior to connecting them to a longer-term eating disorder therapist. We always work as a team with eating disorder therapists and dieticians if needed, as well as with the family in a web of support. We are experts in evidence-based medical care as well as the mental health support needed to address this challenging condition.
Our Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine Specialists are specifically trained in the medical management of:
- Anorexia Nervosa (Restricting or Binging-Purging Subtypes)
- Bulimia Nervosa
- ARFID (Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder)
- Binge Eating Disorder
Mental Health Care
Our Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine Specialists are specifically trained in the medical management of:
- Anxiety Disorders
- Depression
- OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder)
We work collaboratively with therapists and psychologists to provide a web of support for all of our patients' needs and wellbeing. We take time to provide confidential care for adolescents and young adults, and to support the young adult in their evolving independence from their family as they get older. We also provide education and support to the parents of our adolescents and young adults as needed.
Pre- Exposure HIV prophylaxis (PrEP)
Pre- Exposure HIV prophylaxis (PrEP) is medicine taken daily for people who do not have HIV, in order to prevent getting HIV if someone is at risk. PrEP is highly effective if taken as prescribed. Since PrEP only helps prevent HIV, condom use is still important to prevent other STIs. Our specialists in Adolescent and Young Adult Health are specifically trained to provide PrEP in a confidential manner and screen and treat STIs as well.