Cara Doctor, when is it right to start gynecological checks? I have a 15 year old daughter.
Thank you,
Juliette
Doctor Monica Calcagni responds
I’m there Doctor Monica Calcagni, Surgeon specializing in Gynecology and Obstetrics. For over twenty years I have accompanied women in every phase of their lives with competence, listening and passion. I graduated with honors fromUniversity of Rome “Tor Vergata”where I also obtained a specialization in Obstetrics and Gynecology with honors and a II level Master’s degree in Aesthetic Medicine, as well as various specialist certifications.
In my job I deal with everything related to gynecological health: from prevention to contraception, from pregnancy to birth assistance, up to obstetric and gynecological ultrasound. I’m a non-objecting doctor and I have always been committed to protection of women’s health and rights.
Alongside my clinical activity, I also carry out my educational activity, with scientific publications and three books aimed at the general public. I have written three books: My journey alongside women (Maggioli Editore, 2025), More woman, less break (Sperling&Kupfer, 2024) e Women’s things (Sperling&Kupfer, 2022).
For info and contacts call 3397247140-3737375627
Or for online consultations you can book directly on the platform Doctorium.
Doctor Monica Calcagni.
When is the first check-up at the gynecologist?
Really important question, and I’m happy you asked it, because often we only get to the first check-up when something isn’t right. In reality, the gynecological examination is not only used to “cure”, but above all to prevent and to know your body better.
The ideal time for the first visit is around 16-18 years oldor after the start of sexual intercourse. It is not necessary to have symptoms or problems: the first meeting is used to establish a dialogue, answer doubts and offer information on periods, intimate hygiene and contraception. Many girls arrive fearful, fearing something embarrassing or painful. But in most cases the visit is delicate and often does not include internal tests.
The gynecologist is an ally, not a judge
It is first of all a conversation of trust, in which the young patient learns that the gynecologist is an ally, not a judge. Subsequently, prevention tests, such as Pap tests and HPV tests, are inserted according to age and guidelines: the Pap test from 25 years oldHPV testing from 30. Before then, what matters is establishing a calm and informed contact with your reproductive health. Arriving early at the gynecologist means taking care of yourself in a mature way, without shame or fear. And often that first visit, made with the right approach, marks the beginning of a relationship of trust that will accompany the woman throughout her life.
If you want to know more about the gynecological examination and how it happens, subscribe to my YouTube channel Gynecologist Calcagni and you will find a video on the topic.