Pediatric & Adolescent GYN
Pediatric & Adolescent GYN
A pediatric and adolescent gynecologist is a subspecialist, like our own Dr. Laura Parks, who has a fellowship in Pediatric & Adolescent Gynecology. She knows how to care for babies, toddlers, children, tweens, teens, and young women with gynecological concerns. She has unique training in issues that affect the development and anatomy of growing girls and young women, and she is proficient in taking a child-friendly medical history and doing a child-friendly exam, if needed. These may range from ovarian cysts in a newborn, problems in the reproductive organs, problems with puberty, or difficulties with periods, to name some.
Pediatric Gynecology
We offer comprehensive gynecological care for babies and girls. This may involve reconstructive surgery for congenital (present since birth) or acquired (developed after birth) genital anomalies, abnormal puberty (too early or too late), imperforate hymens at birth, pre-pubertal bleeding, labial adhesions, straddle injuries, vulvar and vaginal symptoms, pelvic/ovarian masses, pelvic pain, vaginal inflammation/infection, vaginal trauma, etc. Dr. Laura Parks has undergone additional specialized training after residency to learn to care for medical and surgical gynecologic problems in younger patients.
Adolescent Gynecology
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that the initial visit for screening and provision of preventative health care services occur between 13 – 15 years old. Our gynecologists have sensitivity to this age group and know how to earn the trust of teens through honest answers and sincerity. We provide guidance, address anxieties about fertility and future reproductive health, encourage preventive services including human papillomavirus vaccinations, and, when appropriate, talk about safe sex to prevent STDs as well as various contraceptive methods. We enjoy the opportunity to establish a relationship with our young patients, discuss normal and abnormal pubertal development, dispel myths and misconceptions surrounding weight, development, and sexuality and help adolescent girls become comfortable with their changing bodies. We address painful periods and heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, cysts or masses, and vaginitis.
Birth Control Management
Adolescents should be encouraged to delay sexual onset until they are ready. However, data shows that adherence to abstinence is low. We believe in providing access to comprehensive sexual health information for adolescents, including initiating contraception when necessary.
LGBTQ+
Our practice supports equity and inclusion of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer patients. We respect our patients’ beliefs and customs and answer questions and assist with concerns. We understand that many LGBTQ+ individuals avoid essential health care due to fear of discrimination. Our physicians believe every person has the right to a trustworthy, confidential health care environment.
Hormonal/Transgender Transition
Our goal is to assist people who identify as transgender, gender variant, gender nonconforming, and gender questioning. Gender transition is a private, individualized process that we support emotionally and physically, including hormone therapy.