The Gynecology Care You Need at Every Age

Content medically reviewed by Kelly Greenleaf, MD

Health is a lifelong journey, and gynecology care includes more than just Pap tests. Regular visits with your gynecological provider should be part of your life from your teens until your later years. 

“I encourage anyone with female reproductive health needs to see a gynecologist, a certified nurse-midwife, or another provider annually, as well as when they have any specific questions or concerns,” said Dr. Kelly Greenleaf, OB/GYN at Essentia Health. “I love helping my patients through life transitions from puberty to fertility to menopause and beyond.” 

Your First Appointment With a Gynecological Provider 

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends adolescents see a gynecologist for the first time between ages 13 and 15. This first visit is not necessarily for a pelvic exam but to establish a relationship and discuss any concerns about puberty.  

“Any teenager should see a women’s health care provider if they have questions about their period, painful or heavy periods, or have no periods by age 15,” Dr. Greenleaf said. “Teens should also see a gynecologist if they are sexually active. We can help answer your questions about sex and sexuality, as well as provide you with contraception*.”  Gynecologists can also help those younger than 13 who have started their period and are experiencing pain or other issues. 

Keep Up With Care in Your 20s and 30s 

As you age into adulthood, regular gynecologic care is essential for women’s health. Your provider can –

• Answer any questions about sex 
• Perform testing for sexually transmitted diseases and infections  
• Prescribe or recommend birth control for pregnancy prevention* 
• Screen for cervical cancer 
• Treat common problems such as urinary tract infections (UTIs) and yeast infections 
• Treat conditions causing pelvic pain or other symptoms that may affect your sexual or physical well-being 
  
  

According to the United States Preventive Services Task Force, all women should get their first Pap test at age 21 and have one done every three years to look for signs of cervical cancer. The Pap/HPV co-test is an option for women starting at age 30 to look for signs of cervical cancer or HPV infection.  

“Women should also be tested for STIs annually or as needed from the time of their first sexual intercourse until age 25 and at their discretion thereafter,” Dr. Greenleaf said.  “Infections are very important to diagnose and treat, as some infections can be passed along to other partners, can affect fertility, or be a lifelong issue.” 

When you are ready to get pregnant, your women’s health care provider can help with preconception care and address any fertility issues. 

Care in Your 40s and Beyond

Most women start perimenopause in their 40s. This era usually lasts for several years until menopause—the complete cessation of periods. Gynecology providers can help treat common perimenopause symptoms such as – 

• Heavy and/or irregular periods
• Hot flashes 
• Mood changes 
• Night sweats 
• Sleep problems 
• Urinary leakage 
• Vaginal dryness 

“Perimenopause can be like ‘adult puberty’—it’s a whole new set of symptoms that are very real and can impact a woman’s daily life,” Dr. Greenleaf said. “We can help patients navigate this new journey.” 

You can also talk with your provider about when to start getting mammograms. 

Gynecological Care for Older Women 

Regardless of sexual activity in your older years, you should continue to see a gynecologist after menopause and even after you’ve been cleared from regular Pap tests. 

“Ovarian cancer, vulvar and vaginal cancers, vaginal prolapse, and incontinence are common concerns for our postmenopausal patients,” Dr. Greenleaf said. “Around 25% of women have pelvic floor disorders, which are more common as you age and can greatly impact quality of life.” 

Vaginal pain during sex is also common after menopause, but it is treatable. Your provider can discuss treatment options, such as vaginal lubricants, low-dose vaginal estrogen therapy, and pelvic floor therapy. 

Essentia Health Is Here to Answer Your Questions

Menstruation, pregnancy, sex, and menopause can affect your body in different ways. If you’re wondering what you’re experiencing is normal, Essentia Health is here to help. 

“I want every person to know there are no dumb questions,” Dr. Greenleaf said. “Our main goal is to help you feel heard, validated, and empowered when it comes to your health care.” 

*Elective reproductive procedures are not performed at our Catholic-sponsored hospitals. Visit our Catholic facilities page for a list of these locations.