The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that girls see a gynecologist for the first time between the ages of 13 and 15. While this visit does not normally include a pelvic exam, it does jump-start a relationship that should be on-going for the duration of a woman's life.This first visit is likely to include a discussion about menstruation, sexuality, and healthy lifestyle habits -- and may even involve education about the newly FDA-approved cervical cancer vaccine, recommended for females ages 9 to 26.
According to the American Cancer Society, all women should begin receiving pelvic exams for purposes of cervical cancer screening within three years after the onset of vaginal intercourse and no later than age 21. Testing should be done every year with the regular Pap test or every two years using the newer liquid-based Pap test.
