Adolescents generally don’t need to have a pelvic exam unless they’re experiencing a problem or symptoms that may warrant one. For most healthy women, the first pelvic exam happens at the age of 21, the age at which the first pap smear, or cervical cancer screening test, is recommended.
Girls who do need a pelvic exam should know that the exam itself is relatively quick, and has three parts:
Looking at the vulva
Looking at vagina and the cervix with a speculum
Checking the internal organs with a gloved hand