Teen girls can hyperfocus on many things, including their looks, social status, and achievements. Some girls prioritize these worries over what’s good for them, and this can put them at risk for potentially serious health issues in the future.
At The Guirguis Obstetrics & Gynecology Group, our experienced gynecologists specialize in teen and adolescent health care. We work to identify risky behaviors, underlying health concerns, and unusual symptoms in the earliest stages, so we can ensure girls get the treatment they need.
There are many health conditions that can affect kids during their pre-teen and teenage years, and some can have life-long consequences.
Three of the most pressing health concerns for teen females are the following:
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 14.4 million children and adolescents in the United States are obese.
Girls who are overweight or obese are at a greater risk for developing chronic health conditions, such as high blood pressure and heart disease. Weight can also impact a girl’s reproductive health, increasing their risk for abnormal periods and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). PCOS can cause excessive acne, body hair growth, and infertility.
Fortunately, teens can lower their risk for developing infertility and chronic illnesses by making better choices about their diet and adding more physical activity to their day. Our providers also offer resources to help adolescents and teens maintain a healthy weight in the long term.
On the opposite side of obesity, many teens are obsessed with their appearance and fears of being obese.
Two common eating disorders among teen girls include bulimia and anorexia. Both conditions can lead to major health complications, such as diabetes, organ failure, and even premature death. Eating disorders can also interfere with a girl’s fertility, because they can cause irregular periods or periods that stop completely.
Routine visits with our gynecology team gives us an opportunity to identify early warning signs of an eating disorder. Our providers offer compassionate care for adolescents and teens who struggle with their weight and self-esteem or are battling an eating disorder.
By mid-adolescence, girls are twice as likely as boys to receive a diagnosis for a mood disorder, such as depression or anxiety.
Untreated mood and mental health conditions can have an impact not only on a teen’s mental health, but also on their physical health. With early intervention, adolescents and teens can get symptoms, such as hopelessness, intrusive thoughts, and constant worries, under control.
While we don’t specialize in treating mental health issues, the team at The Guirguis Obstetrics & Gynecology Group can screen for depression and anxiety and refer patients to a specialist for treatment. We can also address mental health concerns that occur because of hormone changes.
The best way for a teen to stay on top of their health is to attend regular checkups with a primary physician and with our gynecologists. We can identify potential health issues in the earliest stages, when they’re usually easier to treat.
Developing an open and honest line of communication helps us give teens the right tools to be healthy, happy, and successful. To learn more, book an appointment online or over the phone with The Guirguis Obstetrics & Gynecology Group today.
