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Walking into Womanhood
Her First Gynecological Exam
By Lisa Marie Metzler
Some teens, however, may not want their moms there. Although it may be hard to let go, it is a healthy way to establish a relationship with her gynecologist. "If in the future the teen needs information from a health care provider, she will feel comfortable picking up the phone and calling her gynecologist to get the most accurate answers that are nonjudgmental with well-informed medical guidance," Dr. Hundley says.
The first gynecological exam can be a "rite of passage" into womanhood for your daughter and a good time for the two of you to connect. Now that you've both "been there and done that," you can share your experiences with each other. Make a day of it; offer to take her shopping and out to lunch. After all, women of all ages can bond over new shoes and a hot fudge brownie sundae.
*Names changed to protect privacy.