Normal Clinic or planned parenthood?

Question

I'm 19, in college, sexually active with one partner. I went in for a physical last year at a normal clinic and they told me they would not do a pap or a breast exam till I'm 21. Now some people would be relieved, but I want them done. My grandma died of breast cancer and I have always had irregular periods that are super painful. I've never been into a planned parenthood/family planning and I don't know how it all works... But what should I do?

Answer

You need to pick an obgyn even if you are under 21. I highly regret my mother not making me go as a teen it could have saved me from soo many issues I'm having now ttc. It's better to go and start early.

Answer

I'd say try planned parenthood. When I was younger I went there for bc and low cost paps. They are use to dealing with young people. They'll probably give you any test you ask for.

Answer

It's bizarre to me that they wouldn't offer a pap/pelvic exam until 21. I had my first at 17 when I went on birth control. Did they explain their reasoning?

Answer

Irregular and painful periods are not a typically a red flag for cancer, but underlying symptoms to other conditions. You also stated you have always had them this way, so even more not to be on such an alarm. I would speak to doctor about the symptoms you are experiencing so you can have answers and figure out a treatment plan. This is not for the concern of cancer, but maintaining optimal fertility for when you are ready.

Answer

I work at Planned Parenthood. I know that the guidelines on papshave changed over the past few years. Unless you're having symptoms of something being wrong, even if you're sexually active, they don't do paps until you're 21. Doesn't matter if you go to a regular clinic or planned parenthood

Answer

You should maybe try a different doctor.

Answer

Here in the UK they don't do smear tests till ur 25 years old. Even if u have been sexually active since a young age :(

Answer

This is the new normal. You can have them teach you how to do a self exam though

Answer

PP offers pretty much the same well woman services that a private OBGYN/midwife would, and are great, especially if you have difficulty paying or are uninsured. They'll work with you.

Answer

Those are two things every doctor should be encouraging. Its very important. I think you should go to a walk in clinic and get it done. Doctors are trained to medicine and handle the people who are dying or have cancer. They sometimes need you to be pushy. Many doctors are quick to say you are not important, but you are. You need these things done and your doctor needs to be responsible enough to listen to your wishes so I think you should revoke your doctor's right to you being their patient and then get a new doctor.

Normal Clinic or planned parenthood?

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