My daughter is 13, and I'm not sure when she should start seeing a gynecologist. What is the right age to take this step? – Erin The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that girls first see a gynecologist when they're between the ages of 13 and 15. Most girls will not need a pelvic exam during this first visit, though. Many gynecologists will just do a regular health exam and talk to a girl about her development. This is a great way for your daughter to develop a relationship with her gynecologist, so that she is comfortable sharing personal information in the future. While all teenage girls should see a gynecologist, it is especially important if your daughter has been sexually active (or is planning to be) or has problems with her period. Back to Articles Related Articles Pelvic Exams A pelvic exam is where a doctor or nurse practitioner looks at a girl's reproductive organs (both outside and internally) and feels the uterus and ovaries to be sure everything's normal. Find out what's involved in this article for teens. Read More Sexual Development Big physical and emotional changes happen during puberty and the teen years. These articles can help you become a source of information, comfort, and support for your kids. Read More Does My Mom Have to Be in the Room During My Gyn Exam? Find out what the experts have to say. Read More Should I Do a Breast Self-Exam? Find out what the experts have to say. Read More Choosing Your Own Doctor You deserve medical care from someone who helps you feel comfortable and understood. Get tips on finding the best doctor for you. Read More Talking to Your Doctor Your best resource for health information and advice is your doctor - the person who knows you, your medical history, and accurate medical information to answer your questions. Read More Electronic Health Records Many health institutions digitally store their patients' health information. Learn about electronic health records (EHRs) and how they can improve health care. Read More Is a Gynecologist the Same as a Primary Care Doctor? Find out what the experts have to say. Read More PMS, Cramps, and Irregular Periods Most period problems are common and normal. But some might be a sign that there's something else going on. Read More Gyn Checkups Girls should get their first gynecological checkup between ages 13 and 15. Find out what happens during a yearly gyn visit -- and why most girls don't get internal exams. Read More When Is it Time to Start Seeing a Gynecologist? Find out what the experts have to say. Read More PMS, Cramps, and Irregular Periods Get the facts on which period problems are normal and which ones might indicate something's going on. Read More Your Daughter's First Gynecology Visit The idea of going to the gynecologist may make your daughter feel nervous. Here's how to make her feel more comfortable about a well-woman visit. Read More Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor. © 1995-2021 KidsHealth®. All rights reserved. Images provided by The Nemours Foundation, iStock, Getty Images, Veer, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com.