When an adolescent has symptoms of a gynecological infection, assessment, treatment, and education are must-haves. Fortunately, the adolescent’s doctor can provide all three, helping kids and young adults get healthy and stay that way for the long term.
Let’s talk about common gynecological infections, how they are treated, and where you can find the best adolescent medicine doctors in Purchase, NY.
The Most Common GYN Infection in Teens and Its Symptoms
Vulvovaginitis, or infection of the exterior female genitalia and vagina, affects about three-quarters of American adolescents at some point before adulthood. Poor hygiene, tight clothing, uncontrolled diabetes, and allergies (to soaps, clothing, and more) can predispose a youngster to some of these infections. Sexual activity also can set the stage for both acute and chronic illness.
Additionally, pregnancy (with its hormonal fluctuations) and taking a course of antibiotics or immuno-suppressant corticosteroids can create the conditions for vulvovaginitis and its uncomfortable and even health-threatening symptoms. These symptoms include:
- Itching of the external genitalia and vagina
- Redness and swelling
- Discharge from the vagina
- Noticeable genital odor
- Abdominal, pelvic, and/or genital pain
- Pain with sexual activity and/or urination
Finally, the introduction of microorganisms (viruses, bacteria, or parasites) can lead to gynecological infections in adolescents. Typically, these microorganisms come from sexual activity.
Assessment and Treatment of Teen Gynecological Infections
Trust in the compassionate care and confidentiality the adolescent health care provider delivers are key to successful treatment and prevention of these potentially serious infections. The first step toward wellness is bringing the youngster in for a physical examination, review of symptoms, and lab analysis of vaginal discharge and urine samples as needed. Any additional testing, such as blood work, can be done at this time, too, if the pediatrician deems it necessary.
With the findings, the doctor will discuss a treatment plan and follow-up care. Education on important aspects of personal hygiene and sexual activity may also be presented to forestall future problems and empower the youngster in good self-care and decision-making.
Common GYN infection treatments include:
- Antifungal creams, suppositories, or pills to eliminate yeast (Candida)
- Antibiotics for bacterial infections and for parasitic trichomoniasis
- Antivirals to suppress Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV), and its outbreaks of sores and other symptoms
Communication and trust between doctor and patient are so important, especially at this stage of adolescent development.
The Best Adolescent Medicine Doctors in Purchase, NY
At BridgeSpan Medicine, our six board-certified pediatricians help families get their adolescents school-ready. As always, we are available to parents and our young patients when physical, mental, and emotional challenges arise. We also emphasize preventive care through routine check-ups, immunizations, on-site lab tests, and more.
We are open Monday through Friday, 9 am to 5 pm, for your convenience. If you have a question or concern or wish to schedule a physical examination, call us today at (914) 698-5544, or request an appointment online.
