$Unique_ID{BRK01096}
$Pretitle{Genitourinary System, Special Procedures and Laboratory Tests}
$Title{Fear of Examination in a Teenage Girl}
$Subject{teenage pelvic exam}
$Volume{J-14, P-14}
$Log{
The Menstrual Cycle*0009101.scf}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Fear of Examination in a Teenage Girl


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QUESTION:  Although my 15 year old daughter has started her periods already,
they seem different than mine were at her age, and I fear they may be a sign
that something is wrong.  Our doctor agrees that an examination is in order,
but when I try to speak to my daughter about it we end up in a screaming
match.  How can I overcome her fears?

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ANSWER:  This would be an easier question for both of us to answer, if we
could determine just what your daughter was frightened about.  Perhaps it is a
fear provoked by the thought that something is indeed wrong with her periods,
and by implication, her budding sexuality.  Since the onset of the menses may
differ substantially in each individual, even in mother and daughter
comparisons, this may be a needless fear from the outset, and the chances
certainly favor the possibility that she is but in a stage of developing her
normal pattern.  It is more than possible that the idea of an examination of
her sexual organs, and the lack of understanding of just what will take place,
would be enough to panic any young girl.  Providing precise information about
the examination and how it will be conducted, may solve the problem, and your
physician should be able to provide you with that information, perhaps in
written form.  Perhaps she is just afraid of the doctor.  That certainly has
been known to happen, and a quiet discussion of her feelings on that matter
and your willingness to hear her out could be the key answer to this question.
Another delicate matter for you to discuss, is the possibility that she may be
reluctant to discuss her personal matters in your presence.  She is a growing
young lady in her own eyes, and now that she requires medical attention on
matters such as this, could feel that she has now entered the stage of life
when she would like to be treated like an adult.  An open discussion between
you and the physician can do much to provide just the right amount of
independence for your daughter, with the continuing respect for your position
as a caring and concerned parent to permit even these feelings to be
successfully addressed in a professional and ethical manner.  This is
certainly a difficult time for both parents and teenagers, but the manner in
which you solve the problem, can set the stage for many vital discussions in
the future.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
