video visit mychart

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Due to the downward trend in respiratory viruses in Maryland, masking is no longer required but remains strongly recommended in Johns Hopkins Medicine clinical locations in Maryland. Read more .

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Johns Hopkins Telemedicine

Video visits from home, using telemedicine to connect to your johns hopkins doctor and care provider.

Patients with a  MyChart account  or new patients can participate in a live-video appointment, called a video visit, with their Johns Hopkins outpatient primary or specialty care provider. Video visits allow patients to connect face-to-face in real time without leaving their home. Patients can use a smartphone, tablet or computer. If you do not have a device to use for a video visit, you and your provider may decide that a telephone call will meet your needs.

MyChart virtual video visits are secure and HIPAA compliant. Professional world language or sign language interpreters and other accommodations are available to join a telemedicine video or phone visit.

In this section:

• Welcome to Video Visits: A Guide for Patients (Video)

Tools You'll Need

• Tips for a Successful Video Visit
• FAQs- Frequently Asked Questions

Your video visit Having Problems?

If you have trouble preparing for your visit, you can call the Johns Hopkins Telemedicine Support Line.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do i schedule a video visit with my johns hopkins specialist.

Both Johns Hopkins providers and patients can request a video visit. Call your provider’s office or send a message through  MyChart  to ask your provider if a video visit is appropriate for your care needs.

What do I do the day of my video visit?

• Complete the e-check-in process through MyChart. (E-check-in is available starting seven days before your video visit.)
• Click the link found in the e-check-in process.
• Click on “Start your video visit.”
• Wait for a medical office assistant or your provider to join you in the video visit session.

Can my family join me during my video visit?

Patients can invite loved ones to participate in the video visit. Click on the “Share your video visit” button during the appointment check-in process, and email the shared URL.

Can I still have a video visit if I am deaf or hard of hearing?

Yes. Our teams can provide accessibility services including American Sign Language integration with video visits and Communication Access Realtime Translation (CART). Please make your care team aware of your communication needs. If you have questions or want to confirm services, contact Language Services at 410-614-4685 .

Can I see a Johns Hopkins provider via telemedicine if I live in a different state?

Due to individual state regulations, Johns Hopkins Medicine may not be able to conduct a telemedicine visit with patients who live in a state other than the state where your provider’s office is located. Please ask your provider if you can be seen via telemedicine before you schedule a video visit.

Who can perform video visits?

Most Johns Hopkins Medicine providers are able to support video visits. Contact your provider to see if a video visit is appropriate for you.

Is this service available for patient’s who need interpretation services?

Yes, we value our diverse patient population, and pride ourselves on the ability to provide equal access to services. An interpreter or other accommodations can be coordinated by the provider through phone or video during your telemedicine visit.  If you have questions or want to confirm services, contact Language Services at  410-614-4685  (para español,  1-844-765-9930 ).

Are video visits secure?

The telemedicine program at Johns Hopkins is wholly owned and operated by Johns Hopkins Medicine. Through the system, your health care provider has access to your secure electronic medical records.

Your information and safety are carefully protected when you use telehealth services, just as they would be during an in-person doctor visit. MyChart virtual video visits are secure and compliant with all traditional privacy regulations.  

You may also connect with your provider via telephone.

What is the No Surprises Act?

The law aims to help patients understand health care costs in advance of care and to minimize unforeseen — or surprise — medical bills.

No Surprises Act Overview

• Patients are protected from receiving  surprise medical bills  resulting from out-of-network care for emergency services and for certain scheduled services without prior patient consent.
• Patients who  do not have insurance  or who are  not using insurance  to pay for care have a right to  receive a good faith estimate  of their potential bill for medical services when scheduled at least three days in advance.
• Individuals with Medicare, Medicare Advantage, Medicaid, Indian Health Services, VA health care, or TRICARE insurance plans are not covered under the No Surprises Act because these federal insurance programs have existing protections in place to minimize large, unforeseen bills.

Learn more about The No Surprises Act. 

• Patient Tools

Video Visit Quick Guide

For your video visit you will need:

• An Apple or Android smartphone or tablet , which is recommended for the best experience OR
• A computer with camera, speakers, and microphone will also work
• A MyChart account, login, and password for yourself or minor child. For assistance in obtaining a MyChart account, please contact your provider’s office.

Step 1 – Prepare for your visit:

• To download the MyChart app to your device, search “MyChart” in the App Store or Google PlayStore. Check that you can log into the app using your MyChart login and password.
• To download the Zoom app to your device, search “Zoom” in the App Store or Google PlayStore.*There is no need to create a Zoom account and no charge for the Zoom App*
• Ensure you will be in Connecticut or a state in which your provider is licensed at the time of your video visit. Please contact your provider if you will not be in Connecticut to verify your eligibility.
• Ensure you will be in a private location with reliable Wi-Fi or LTE at the time of your video visit.
• For information on a video visit that includes an American Sign Language interpreter, use the ASL and Video Visit Tip Sheet

Step 2 – The day before your video visit:

• Complete the eCheck-in process by opening MyChart, logging in, and choosing the video visit appointment. Select “eCheck-in.”
• Verify your personal information and complete all sections, tapping “Continue” to progress. You will be required to sign any outstanding documents, including your telehealth consent. Click submit. You’ll receive a message that your eCheck-in is complete.
• Turn on your microphone and speakers
• Turn up your volume
• Turn off your Bluetooth (unless using for medical device)
• Ask your provider about including an interpreter in your visit

Step 3 – At least 15 minutes before your video visit:

• Navigate to your video visit appointment.
• Select “Begin Visit” in MyChart.
• If prompted open in Zoom. You may see a “Waiting for host to start this meeting” message. If you get this message, you are in a virtual waiting room and need to wait for the provider to join and admit you into the video visit.
• Allow access to your microphone and camera and select “Join with Video” in Zoom.
• Once the meeting is joined, select “Wifi or Cellular Data”
• Once your provider joins, options are available to leave the meeting, mute/unmute sound , and in-call chat . Note: If you hit “Leave the Meeting” by mistake, navigate back to MyChart and select “Begin Visit” to access the visit.

For assistance, call our patient support team: 475-246-8041 *Please note: These instructions do not apply to any non-scheduled video visit with your clinician

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Using MyChart for Your Video Visit

Instructions and a step-by-step guide, join your mychart video visit.

If have been scheduled for a telehealth video visit using MyChart, you can use your smartphone, tablet, laptop or desktop computer to have your visit. If you are new to video visits, you may want test your audio and video connection before your visit with our MyChart Tech Check tool . Below are instructions and tips to help you plan for what to expect during your telehealth video visit.

Log in to MyChart

• Log in using the MyChart website or the Ohio State MyHealth app
• Select the Visit or Appointment

Complete preregistration

• You can complete preregistration any time before your appointment.
• To start, select the green preregistration button in your appointment details.
• Follow the prompts to confirm a registration details before you can start your visit.
• You must select Submit to complete preregistration before starting your visit.

Begin your visit

• Try to join your video visit at least five minutes ahead of your appointment time.
• When you are ready to see your health care provider, select “Begin Video Visit” in your appointment details.

• Your visit will launch in a web browser on your computer or mobile device.
• You will be asked if Vidyo can use your microphone and camera, select “Allow” for both.

Video tutorials

Watch these video tutorials on how to join your telehealth video visits in MyChart, including completing preregistration before your visit.

Video tutorial for using a desktop or laptop computer.

Recommended technology for joining video visits in MyChart

Helpful links.

• How to Sign Up for MyChart
• MyChart Features
• MyChart Technical Support
• MyChart FAQ
• MyChart Password Settings

Grady MyChart Video Visit

Grady memorial hospital (main hospital) change location, make your next visit by video.

The Grady team you already know and trust is now offering care from anywhere with Virtual Visits.

Grady offers virtual visits (also called telehealth visits) in most clinics. A virtual visit allows you and your family to have a secure, live-video appointment with your care team from the comfort of your home. The best part is you can save time and travel costs and receive the same quality care as an in-person visit.

Video visits (virtual visits) are perfect when you have an existing relationship with a Grady provider and have a condition that may not need in-person care.

If this sounds like you, you may get a call to schedule your next visit by video. The scheduling team will cover everything you need to get ready for your video visit. You need a smartphone, tablet, or computer and an active MyChart account. On the day of the visit, join the video appointment with your provider and connect face-to-face in real-time to discuss your care. You’ll even be able to see x-rays and lab results.

We look forward to caring for you in a way – and place – that works best for you.

Preparing Your Device

We recommend you use a smartphone or tablet for your video visit. Here’s what you need to prepare.

• You need to download the MyChart app to your smartphone or tablet. This app is free to download and use.
• You need a working MyChart account. If you have never logged in, or have not logged in recently, now is a great time to make sure your account works.

Using a computer – no problem. There’s no software to download. Visit https://mychart.gradyhealth.org/ and login to Grady MyChart to begin.

If you need assistance with any of the steps above, call Grady’s MyChart Support Line at (404) 616-5551 .

DOWNLOAD THE MYCHART APP

Preparing for Your Visit

Once you have everything downloaded and tested, you are ready to prepare for your visit.

Before Your Video Appointment

You must log in to the MyChart app and complete the ECHECK-IN process three days before your video visit. You can access this from your appointment within MyChart. It will ask you to verify and update your contact information.

Day of Your Appointment

You can have a video visit just about anywhere. But make sure to:

• Select a quiet, private, well-lit location for your video visit.
• Check your signal. Make sure this place has a strong Wi-Fi signal. Please be aware that if you use mobile data, phone carrier charges may apply.
• Charge your device. Make sure the mobile device is fully charged.
• Be on time. Please make sure you are online and checked in 20 minutes before your appointment time.

Time to Begin

• Open the MyChart app. Log in to Grady MyChart and find your appointment in the appointments list.
• Tap the Telehealth appointment and choose ECHECK-IN.  You will be asked to confirm a few pre-appointment details before you can start your visit.
• Beginning 20 minutes before your appointment time, a green BEGIN VISIT button will appear at the bottom of your video visit appointment page. You will see this button only after completing ECHECK-IN . Click the button when you’re ready to chat with your healthcare provider. It’s recommended that you join at least five minutes ahead of your appointment time.

For any technical difficulties, please contact Grady MyChart Support at (404) 616-5551 .

Troubleshooting

Problems happen. Don’t panic. The answer to your question may be below. You can also call Grady MyChart Support at (404) 616-5551 .

A smartphone or tablet is strongly recommended. If you do not have access to a capable mobile device, please call (404) 616-5551 for technical instructions/support for using a desktop computer/PC.

Check your OS – 12 or higher for iPhone/iPad iOS; 7.0 or higher for Android.

To check your iPhone/iPad OS version, go to the “Settings” app, click “General,” click “About,” and the second line will say Software Version.

For Android, look under “Settings,” then “System,” then “About Device,” then “Android Version.”

Search for MyChart in the Apple App Store (iPhone/iPad) or Google Play Store (Android).

Check your data bars, and if the phone is running 4G or LTE. A Wi-Fi connection is preferred.

You must go to the Grady MyChart app and complete the ECHECK-IN process three days before your video visit. You can access this from your appointment within MyChart. It will ask you to verify and update your address.

Starting Your Virtual Video Visit (Day of Your Visit)

Using pc or mac for video visit.

Step 1 Log in to Duke MyChart (now My Duke Health) at least 30 minutes before your scheduled appointment and click on “Visits."

Step 2 If you’ve already completed your eCheck-in process , click the “DETAILS” button to access your appointment page.

• If you’ve waited until the day of your appointment to check-in, please complete this process at least 30 minutes before ahead of your video visit.
• If you have not downloaded the latest version of Zoom, please download it  from the Zoom site .

Step 3 Click on the green “BEGIN VIDEO” button.

Step 4 Follow the prompts to launch Zoom.

• You are now in the virtual waiting room and are ready for your visit. Wait for your provider to join and start your appointment.

Learn more about your video visit on a PC or Mac:

Using Phone or Tablet for Video Visit

Step 1 Download the My Duke Health and Zoom apps from the Apple Store or Google Play.

• My Duke Health: Apple Store and Google Play
• Zoom: Apple Store and Google Play

If you do not have an active My Duke Health (previously Duke MyChart) account, you can sign up online with an access code from your provider or request a code to create an account . If you are unable to create a My Duke Health account, call your clinic and ask to have an in-person visit.

Step 2 Up to five days before your appointment, log into your My Duke Health app and check in. It’s recommended do to this at least one day in advance.

Step 3 At least 30 minutes before your scheduled appointment, log in to your My Duke Health app and click on “Appointments.”

Step 4 If you’ve already completed your eCheck-in process, you can click the green camera button to launch Zoom for your appointment.

• If you’ve waited until the day of your appointment to check in, log into My Duke Health 30 minutes ahead of your video visit to complete the process.

Step 5 When a Zoom alert launches, select “Open.” You are now in the Virtual Waiting Room and are ready for your visit. Please wait for your provider to join and start your appointment.

If You're Having Trouble If you’re not sure how to attend your virtual appointment or have trouble with your eCheck-in process ahead of the visit, call our telehealth support staff at 919-684-1598. We recommend troubleshooting any issues before the day of your appointment. If you need additional help the day of your video visit, it’s recommended to call our support staff 30 minutes prior to your appointment to walk through each step of logging you in.

MyChart Video Visits

Mychart video visits - face-to-face medical care from the comfort of your home.

A video visit allows you to receive an online diagnosis through a video chat with your provider, instead of a traditional in-office visit. 

If you need an assessment for an illness or need to contact your provider about your chronic condition but are concerned about coming into the office during this time of social distancing, a video visit allows you face-to-face medical care from the comfort of your home.

Cost of Video Visits

This visit is treated just like an in-person visit to your provider’s office. Any co-pays will be due at the time of service.

Hours of Video Visits

Video visits are scheduled appointments with your established provider.

Simply call your provider’s office to schedule a video visit or to change an upcoming appointment to a video visit.

Your privacy is important to us. We use cookies and other tracking technologies to ensure the performance and security of our website and to understand usage. This may include disclosures about your use of the website to third parties. By using our website, you agree to its use of these technologies.

Video Visits

Whether you have an illness, injury or need routine care, video visits offer you a safe, secure and convenient way to get the care you need from home.

If you need help or have questions preparing for your video visit, please call our Patient Technology Helpline at (802) 847-1830 .

What Is a Video Visit?

A video visit is a secure online appointment between you and your provider using a computer, tablet or smartphone. Both you and the provider are able to see, hear and speak to each other, similar to using FaceTime. Your video visit is private and not recorded – only you and your provider participate in the appointment and it’s completed in real time.

How Can a Video Visit Help Me?

• CONVENIENCE:  You can see and speak with your provider from the comfort of your home.
• SAFETY: By staying home, you’ll help slow the spread of illnesses, like COVID-19, and protect yourself from others who may be sick.
• EFFICIENCY: Without the need to travel, you’ll save time and money.
• SECURITY: We use strict, HIPAA-compliant videoconferencing technology designed to protect your privacy and the security of your health information.

Which Departments and Practices Offer Video Visits?

Most departments, from primary care to specialty programs, are equipped with video visit capabilities. Contact your provider’s office to discuss your health needs and let them know you’re interested in a video visit.

Pediatric Video Visits

Our pediatric providers also offer video visits, and can treat injury and illness as well as provide routine care for your child. To find out if a video visit is right for your child, please contact your pediatric primary care office.

Preparing For Your Video Visit

Your video visit will take place on your choice of smartphone, computer or tablet, either through MyChart or Zoom. Your provider’s office will give you details on how to access your visit after you make your appointment.

To learn more about each type of video visit, click on the links below. If you need technical assistance please call our Patient Technology Helpline at (802) 847-1830 .

MyChart Video Visits ( Downloadable PDF )

Zoom Video Visit - Desktop ( Downloadable PDF )

Zoom Video Visit - Mobile ( Downloadable PDF )

Video Visit FAQs

How do i set up a video visit.

You and your care team will determine if this type of visit is appropriate for your health needs. You can also use MyChart to request a video visit. If your health need can be addressed using video, your video visit will be scheduled and you will get a confirmation from MyChart, along with information on how to prepare for the visit.

Can providers treating me using a video visit write orders, prescribe medication and order refills?

Yes. Providers have access to your electronic medical record, and as with office visits, each can electronically order prescriptions and write medical orders based on the patient’s need.

Is a video visit private or can others see me, like on TV?

Your visit is private and confidential. We use technology that, by law, must include HIPAA-compliant security methods to protect privacy and security of your health information. Only those whom you have agreed to participate in the visit may see and hear it.

Will a recording be made of my video visit with my provider?

No, Vermont law does not allow any recording to be made of patient video visits. Also, by law, patients are not allowed to record it from their end.

Can my family or caretaker be with me during the video visit?

Yes, those who participate in your care may be present. 

What is the cost and does insurance cover this kind of visit?

Most insurance carriers allow for some type of telemedicine visit. Eligibility and coverage, however, may vary from one insurance to another. Your care team will be able to help you understand how this impacts you.

What happens if, based on my video visit, the provider believes that he/she needs to see me in-person instead?

If, during your video visit, your provider determines that you need to be seen in-person, the office staff will work with you to find a convenient time for you to come in. Standard office visit charges would apply.

If I end up not wanting to do the scheduled video visit, will that affect my right to future care or treatment?

No, you will not be penalized from receiving further care just because you decide not to continue with the video visit. We would just ask that you call the office to cancel or reschedule the appointment just as you would do if you had an in-person appointment.

Will the information from my video visit be placed into my medical record?

Yes, your provider’s notes will be entered into your record just like an in-person visit. Like your other medical records, you have the right to access the provider’s visit notes. You can find the visit notes in MyChart under Visits, by clicking on the View After Visit Summary link.

Is the quality of care the same as an in-person visit?

Video visits and other telemedicine services have been studied and confirmed by decades of research and demonstrations to be a safe, convenient, and often cost-effective way to provide healthcare services.

What are quick tips for a quality experience?

• Test your device or computer 24 hours before your appointment. If you have any questions, call our Patient Technology Helpline at (802) 847-1830 .
• Use a hardwire connection, not Wi-Fi, when possible.
• Adjust the camera to your eye/forehead level.
• Sit in a quiet, private room with no distractions.
• The light source should be directed toward your face. Do not sit with a window behind you.
• Maintain eye contact.
• Speak clearly with normal tone and volume.
• If you have problems hearing or seeing the provider, let them know.

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Inova Video Visits

Your Visit. Your Choice. Inova Video Visits

Inova is pleased to offer medical appointments by video to safely connect you with your provider (physician, nurse practitioner or physician assistant) from the comfort of your home. A video appointment will allow you to have consistent ways of getting care without having to go to an in-person healthcare site. Telemedicine services are offered to patients (new or established) who are physically located at the time of the virtual visit in Virginia.

Don't delay your visit. Schedule a secure, real-time, video appointment with your doctor  today. 

Already scheduled? Make sure you have everything necessary to conduct your call. See below for detailed instructions, tips and FAQs. 

Inova Departments Offering Virtual Visits

• AIDS Services (Inova Juniper Program)
• Behavioral Health
• Concierge Medicine (Inova VIP 360)
• Endocrinology
• Heart and Vascular (Cardiology)
• Neurosciences
• Orthopedics (includes Sports Medicine)
• Pediatric Specialists of Virginia
• Primary Care
• Rheumatology
• Weight Loss Services
• Pregnancy and Childbirth

Virtual Services for Medicaid Patients

• Inova Cares Clinics for Children
• Inova Cares Clinics for Women
• Inova Cares Clinics for Families

Download MyChart for Mobile or Desktop Device

You must have access to your MyChart account. The mobile MyChart app is available for both iPhone and Android devices.

MyChart Mobile App

MyChart for Desktop Computer

Complete the eCheck-in Process

• Login to MyChart up to 24 hours in advance
• Click on the Visit icon
• Click on eCheck-in and follow the prompts to complete the eCheck-in process
• Verify your identity and complete questionnaires required for your appointment
• After you complete this process, you can close out of MyChart until your video visit

Start Your Virtual Visit

• Login to MyChart
• Navigate to your appointment
• Make sure the eCheck-in process is complete
• Click green BEGIN VISIT button
• Click the green JOIN THE CALL button 

LOGIN TO MYCHART

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this mean for you.

Choosing to have a video or telephone visit means you will get your care on the day of your appointment from the comfort of your home. You will not have to delay your visit.

How are we ensuring your privacy and security?

Inova prioritizes the safety of your information during video visits. Our IT department follows CDC recommendations for the added security of your medical information. Prior to your video visit, the Inova staff will provide you with detailed instructions that will ensure your visit is private and protected.

How will you know what type of visit to schedule?

If you are able to connect to the internet by phone, tablet or computer, we ask that you schedule a video visit. If you do not have a video-capable device, then you may have a telephone visit.

What are the technology requirements for a telephone or video visit?

Telephone Visit: You will only need your telephone to complete this visit.

Video Visit: you will need a smart phone, tablet or computer with camera. 

If you are using a desktop, make sure your device meets the following technology requirements:

*Apple devices with OS version 14.2 should be updated to 14.3 or later.

If your device does not meet these requirements, consider using a mobile device or another device that meets the requirements. You may also contact your provider’s office for alternative options or schedule an in-person visit.

How will you be billed for a telephone or video visit?

Telephone and video visits will be billed to your insurance. Some insurance companies are waiving patient responsibility amounts (copay, coinsurance, deductible) and are allowing video & telephone visits temporarily as a covered service. Please contact your insurance plan for policy specifics.

State limitations

Due to variations in state guidelines, we offer virtual visits to:

• New and established patients who are physically located at the time of service in Virginia.
• New and established patients who are physically located at the time of service out-of-state in any other state where the provider is duly licensed to practice .

We do not offer virtual visits to new or established patients located outside of the Unites States due to international restrictions.

Patient Testimonials

Hear from our patients who are using virtual visits to safely conduct their care.

The Inova Primary Care - Springfield staff consistently provides courteous and professional assistance. This appointment was initially an in-office meeting, switched to a video chat due to COVID-19 situation. The switch went smoothly and I did not feel short-changed at all. Inova Primary Care - Springfield

I did not have the opportunity to go "physically" in the office due to the Covid-19 going on at this time. It was a "video" call but from the very beginning, the person who answered the phone was very professional willing to help me, Inova Primary Care - Oakton

I had my first televisit with the doctor because of the coronavirus, and it went very well! Inova Endocrinology - Alexandria

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Your Teen’s First Gynecologist Visit: 5 Things To Know

May 06, 2024

When your child is young, preventive care is easy to navigate – you simply take your child to their pediatrician every year for their annual checkup. But if you have a daughter approaching adolescence, you may wonder when it’s appropriate to take her to a gynecologist.

Reproductive health is important during every stage of a woman’s life – even during the teen years, and even if they aren’t sexually active. It’s important to establish care with a gynecologist early so they can become a trusted resource for your daughter if and when any problems arise, says University Hospitals obstetrician and gynecologist-in-chief  Stephanie Teal, MD .

Here are five things to know about your teen’s first visit to a gynecologist:

Ideally, a girl should start seeing a gynecologist after her first period.

This typically occurs around ages 12–14 for most girls. Menstruation usually begins about 1.5–2 years after the start of breast development in girls, so that can be an indicator of when you might expect your daughter to get her first period.

Additionally, if your daughter hasn’t started her period by age 15, it’s a good idea to schedule a gynecologist appointment to rule out any health problems that may be delaying the onset of menstruation.

For most girls, Dr. Teal recommends a yearly checkup starting around age 14. But this can vary depending on your child’s pediatrician and their comfort level in talking to your teen about reproductive and sexual health issues.

“Some pediatricians will feel very comfortable answering your questions and your teen’s questions about these topics, as well as giving guidance about what to expect as they enter adolescence,” says Dr. Teal. “Others would prefer your daughter go to a gynecology and women’s health expert to address these needs.”

A gynecologist can help with a wide range of teen health concerns.

During the first few years of menstruation, periods can be erratic – so this is a good time to see a gynecologist and learn what is normal and what is not, says Dr. Teal. Some of the common reasons a parent might bring their daughter to a gynecologist include:

• Irregular, heavy or very painful periods. Though these issues are quite common in teens, they can be very disruptive to school, sports and social activities. These issues can lead to missing school, quitting teams and reducing self-esteem.
• Excessive hair growth. Hormone shifts during puberty may bring up issues such as hair growth, acne and other skin changes that can be concerning to a teen.
• Weight concerns. Weight gain and body image issues are common concerns during puberty that a gynecologist can address.
• Sexual health. A gynecologist can educate parents and teens about navigating communicating about sex, identifying safe and unsafe situations, birth control, sexually transmitted diseases and other topics related to sexual activity.

The first visit is mainly talking – and a pelvic exam is rarely needed.

Many parents and teens might be anxious about the possibility of a painful physical examination at the gynecologist’s office. But Dr. Teal wants to put that idea to rest: “Guidance on pelvic exams for teens has changed, so it’s very unlikely a teen will need a vaginal exam.”

Dr. Teal says pelvic exams are very rare for younger patients, especially if they are not sexually active or don’t have a specific condition that warrants it. The majority of health concerns a teen may be facing can be addressed with non-invasive methods, such as an ultrasound or blood tests.

During the visit, your child’s provider will also want to take a detailed health history and ask questions related to your child’s development, menstrual cycle and other pertinent information. It’s also an opportunity for your teen to get to know their provider a little bit so they can get more comfortable with them.

You’ll likely start the visit in the exam room with your teen, but may be asked to step out later.

Dr. Teal says that for teens she likes to start the visit with the parent in the exam room. This serves to not only make your child more comfortable, but it can help to have a parent there to answer questions regarding their child’s medical history.

But Dr. Teal always tells parents that there will be at least a couple of minutes at each visit without a parent in the room. This is important for both parent and teen. For the parent, it helps them get used to their child having another trusted adult to talk to about problems. For the teen, it gives them an opportunity to discuss issues they may be worried about, but aren’t comfortable going to mom or dad about yet.

Dr. Teal says this one-on-one time is a good opportunity to talk about things like bullying, peer pressure and risky behaviors such as smoking, drinking or drug use – and about how to self-advocate when encountering these situations.

“Speaking with your teen alone doesn’t necessarily mean we’re talking about sex or birth control,” says Dr. Teal. “But it’s a good time to talk about and even role-play self-advocacy, so if they do encounter a sexual situation they have the tools in place to make good choices for themselves.”

Seeing a gynecologist as a teen can set up a lifetime of good health.

Many moms in their 30s and 40s might remember their own anxiety around their first gynecologist visit. But guidance around teen’s reproductive health has changed a lot in the last 15 years or so, says Dr. Teal. Routine pelvic exams are no longer conducted. Pap tests are not recommended before age 21, even if a teen is sexually active.

The experience at the gynecologist’s office for today’s teens is very different from that of their parents, and it doesn’t have to be embarrassing, uncomfortable or painful, says Dr. Teal.

Instead, establishing care at a young age will mean your daughter has a trusted provider they can turn to when they have questions or concerns, and will have someone to help guide them through every phase of life.

Related Links

Need to find an OB/GYN? University Hospitals has a large network of women’s health experts throughout the region. Visit OB/GYN & Women's Health Services to learn more and find a provider near you.

Tags: Gynecology , Teens & Tweens , Stephanie Teal, MD, MPH