A patient may be referred to the Washington University Center for Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology by her physician, or parents may call for appointments. Working closely with the referring physicians and other specialists at St. Louis Children's Hospital, we are able to address the special gynecologic needs of children with chronic illnesses and disabilities. Adolescents are especially able to benefit from our wellness and prevention programs. Counseling about the risks of sexual activity, education about abstinence programs, pregnancy prevention and prevention of sexually transmitted diseases is an important need for today's young woman. It is our philosophy that your daughter's first visit to the gynecologist should be a positive experience.
All examinations are age-appropriate and are provided by a sensitive and caring specialist.
Educational resources are available for patients and their families. The gynecologic examination of a child is completely different from that of an adult. The prepubertal child is susceptible to injuries and infections which are unique due to the unestrogenized state of the tissues of the introitus, hymen and vagina. The examination will take place in a matter which is reassuring, non-threatening and without discomfort. We have special instruments and equipment which allow us to examine young children and teens.