Abnormal Pap Smears In Adolescents

Goldfarb: I think this discussion has pointed out several things when it comes to the management of adolescent gynecology and the problems that might exist from an infectious standpoint in the vulvovaginal canal and the cervix. Every young lady that has HPV must be tested for other STIs. We would also discuss serum screening for sexually transmitted infections and arrange a follow-up visit to discuss the results. I have found that the older adolescent age 16 to 18 is comfortable with this discussion and is willing to understand the boundaries of confidentiality. I also get down on my knees and beg them not to have an unintended pregnancy and discuss contraception and in the future to avoid sexually transmitted infections. I tell them to make sure the man is wearing a condom every time you make love and be comfortable looking at his penis to be sure there are no warts or lesions on the foreskin or penis itself. Breech: I guess in closing the point that I would think of most for health care providers of adolescents would be to use the interaction you have with the adolescent to employ as much education as possible. Certainly obtaining Pap smears and discussing abnormal Paps. (excerpt)