GYNAECOLOGICAL PROBLEMS IN INDIAN ADOLESCENT GIRLS

BACKGROUND We undertook the study to assess the clinical profile of adolescent girls in the age group of 10-19 years attending our gynaecology clinic at GMC Kottayam. The objective was to evaluate various clinical presentations and different modalities of management required for the girls in this group. MATERIALS AND METHODS We analysed 100 consecutive adolescent girls who visited our clinic at GMC Kottayam for a period of two years. They were evaluated prospectively for various clinical presentations at each visit. Specific proforma was filled for each patient which included their personal details, gynaecological problems with associated complaints, menstrual history, examination findings including height, weight and secondary sexual characteristics. Investigations such as haemogram, hormonal assay and USG were carried out as and when required. Counseling for good nutrition, physical fitness, exercise, responsible sexual behaviour and immunization was undertaken as per the need of the patient. RESULTS The commonest complaint was menstrual disorders 54% followed by ovarian tumours 25%. Other complaints included teenage pregnancy, sexual assault, leucorrhoea, vulval injury, Bartholin’s abscess etc. The incidence of severe anaemia was 7.4% in our study. Few suffered from hypothyroidism. There was one case of ITP and one case of CAH. 24% of girls had features of PCOD. CONCLUSION Over the last few years, Adolescent Gynaecology has emerged as a subspecialty in developing countries. Health professionals dealing with adolescent age group should have empathy, friendliness and non-judgemental attitude towards their parents. Confidentiality of young people should be maintained. We need to give special attention to adolescent population as they will be citizens and parents of tomorrow.