The first pelvic examination and common gynecological problems in adolescent girls.

The first pelvic examination is a rite of passage into American womanhood. Indicators and special considerations for performing a pelvic examination for a teenaged female are reviewed. Factors in the history, physical examination, and laboratory evaluation of the adolescent are presented. The sequence of pubertal events before, during, and after menarche is discussed so that menstrual disorders are presented in the context of normal development. The author presents a synthesis of her approach to caring for adolescents with a review of current literature and resources available to health professionals.