Hey there! So, childhood gynecology is all about understanding and addressing the unique sexual health needs of girls from birth to 18 years old. During this time, they might face similar issues to adult women, but with their own anatomical, biochemical, and psychological differences.

Now, let’s talk about how these check-ups work. Typically, when a young girl goes to see a gynecologist, she’s likely accompanied by her mom. But sometimes, girls might feel a bit shy or uncomfortable discussing certain things, especially when it comes to their sex life, in front of their parents. That’s why doctors often prefer to ask those kinds of questions when the parent steps out for a bit. It’s essential to create a comfortable environment for the examination, making sure the girl feels at ease and cared for.

During the exam, the doctor looks at various things like the girl’s physique, pelvic shape, and how fat is distributed. They also check out the development of secondary sexual characteristics compared to her age. External genitalia are examined too—like the labia, urethra, hymen, and its openness. These give clues about estrogen levels in her body. Then comes the palpation of internal genitalia, but instead of the usual bimanual method used for women, doctors opt for recto-abdominal palpation. It’s gentler and more suitable for kids since their anatomy is different.

Now, onto the tests. Most tests that adult women undergo can also be done for girls. But there are some specific ones for kids. Vaginoscopy, for instance, involves examining the vagina using a vaginoscope. It helps with issues like unclear vaginal bleeding or detecting foreign bodies or tumors without harming the hymen. Microbiological research is crucial too, but it needs to be done without causing discomfort. Hormonal studies and X-ray examinations help diagnose puberty-related issues, giving insight into hormone levels and bone development.

So, whether it’s a routine check-up or specific tests, the goal is to ensure the girl’s sexual health is monitored and any issues are addressed early on, in a way that respects her comfort and privacy.