When Should My Daughter See an OBGYN for the First Time?

As a parent, you want to do right by your daughter—especially when it comes to her health. One question that often comes up is: When should she have her first OBGYN visit? Is there a certain age? Does something need to be “wrong”? And what if she’s totally nervous about it?

The good news is that a first OBGYN visit is usually very low-key. It’s less about exams and more about education, reassurance, and helping your daughter feel comfortable taking care of her body.

Here’s what parents should know.

What’s the Right Age for a First Visit?

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends a first gynecologic visit sometime between ages 13 and 15. At this age, the appointment is typically just a conversation—no pelvic exam is needed unless there’s a medical reason. In fact, routine pelvic exams usually don’t start until age 21.

For many teens, this first visit is simply a chance to:

• Talk about puberty, periods, and what’s normal (and what’s not)
• Ask questions about cramps, irregular cycles, or heavy bleeding
• Learn about healthy habits, hygiene, and emotional well-being
• Get reliable, age-appropriate answers about relationships, sexuality, and birth control
• Meet a women’s health provider and start building a trusted relationship

Your daughter may see a physician, nurse practitioner, physician assistant, or nurse midwife—all trained in women’s health and adolescent care.

When You Might Want to Schedule a Visit Earlier

You don’t have to wait until the teen years if something feels off. It’s a good idea to schedule an appointment sooner if your daughter:

• Has not started her period by age 15
• Has very painful, heavy, or unpredictable periods
• Experiences itching, discomfort, or unusual vaginal discharge
• Is sexually active or thinking about becoming sexually active
• Needs the HPV vaccine (recommended starting at ages 11–12)
• Has questions or concerns she’s uncomfortable bringing up at home

Sometimes teens just need a safe, judgment-free space to talk—and that’s perfectly okay.

Helping Your Daughter Feel at Ease

Feeling nervous before a first OBGYN visit is completely normal. You can help make the experience easier by:

• Choosing a provider who regularly works with teens
• Letting your daughter know she’s in control—she can ask questions and set boundaries
• Explaining that most early visits are just a conversation, not an exam
• Offering to stay in the room or step out, depending on what makes her feel comfortable

Our goal is always to help teens feel respected, supported, and empowered—not overwhelmed.

A First Step Toward Lifelong Women’s Health

That first OBGYN visit isn’t just a checkmark—it’s the beginning of a lifelong approach to caring for her health. By encouraging open, honest conversations early on, you’re helping your daughter build confidence and take ownership of her well-being for years to come.

At Advanced OBGYN with convenient offices in Flemington, Lebanon and Branchburg, New Jersey are here for both you and your daughter—every step of the way. Please contact (908) 806-0080 to make an appointment.