What is puberty?
Not long after girls turn 8, their brains begin to signal to the rest of the body that it is time to start maturing. Along with outgrowing her clothing more quickly, the telltale signs of the onset of puberty in girls include:
- Hair grows under her arms and in the genital region
- Breasts begin to develop
- She acquires a figure
- She needs deodorant for the first time
It is not uncommon for girls to suffer from acne and mood swings. These changes are all in response to new hormones coursing through her body.
Why do adolescents need to see a gynecologist?
While you know what your daughter is going through, because you’ve been through it yourself, the conversation is uncomfortable. You need to not only discuss how her body changes, but how others are changing, as well.
Along with explaining biology, a discussion needs to be had about dangerous behaviors and emotional problems. That helps curtail any signs of depression and the risk of suicide. Dr. Sayago provides counseling when it comes to risky practices and other issues.
Dr. Sayago will also take the opportunity to discuss healthy habits, including eating well and participating in physical activity as these practices help you:
- feel good,
- look good,
- do your best in school, work, or sports.
These habits also prevent diseases including:
- diabetes,
- high blood pressure,
- heart disease,
- osteoporosis,
- stroke,
- some cancers when you are older.
Dr. Sayago provides a trustworthy, confidential authority for you and your daughter to discuss uncomfortable topics including:
- Abstinence
- Birth Control
- STDs
- Sexual Orientation
How does adolescent care differ from adult care?
Dr. Sayago is knowledgeable in the growing, changing body of your teen’s anatomy and physiology. Along with this expertise, she also knows how to communicate with both your child and with you, her parent.
Dr. Sayago performs her examinations in a way that is reassuring. She uses instruments and equipment specially designed to examine young children and teens, so there's little to no discomfort.
Before you know it, your sweet little angel will be off to college, getting married and having children of her own. Call or make an appointment online today for your daughter with Dr. M. Mercedes Sayago at Newport Beach Women’s Wellness Center in Newport Beach, California.
