Tips for teens from Capital Women’s Care
CWC Hagerstown Providers offer Tips and Facts to Teens
When Should I Have My First GYN Wellness Visit?
Between 13-15 years of age. I like to use the initial visit to get to know each patient. It’s my goal to have them become comfortable with our office, my nurse and myself. I also take the time to teach my patients how to properly do a self breast exam. If they’re sexually active, I will perform a gynecologic exam, which includes a pelvic and clinical breast examination. I also conduct a lung and heart evaluation, along with a thyroid and abdominal exam, and obtain Gonorrhea and Chlamydia cultures for screening of sexually transmitted diseases. It is our mission to help the patient successfully maintain a healthy lifestyle for years to come!
-Rebecca Kreps, PA-C
What Tips Would You Give To Young Women To Encourage A Healthy Style?
As an athlete at Boonsboro High School, I was actively involved in volleyball, basketball and track and field for 4 years. Of course at the time I wasn’t really thinking about it being good for my physical fitness and wellness. It was just fun! I credit my coaches for helping to make it fun and for teaching me sound fundamentals for training that I still practice today. I encourage my patients to participate in some physical fitness activity, something they really enjoy. The health and fitness habits that you start now will follow you over your lifetime.
Dr. Miller, MD –
As a high school lacrosse coach, I try to emphasize that the most important determinant of success in athletics is fitness. Our preseason conditioning sessions are designed to include not just running but agility work and strength building exercises. We use our own bodies to increase resistance with push ups and resistance bands. I also encourage my patients to be resourceful at home. Many household items can double as exercise props. Exercise also needs to be fun, so mix it up!
Susan Funke, CMN, MS
Fast Facts
The providers of Capital Women’s Care recommend the following:
-150 minutes (That’s only 22 minutes a day!) of moderate aerobic exercise and 2 or more days of muscle strengthening exercise per week is recommended.
-Carry a water bottle for easy access when you are at work or running errands to increase water intake.
-Add a wedge of lemon or lime to improve the taste of your water.
-Cut calories by eating smaller portions. Use a smaller plate or bowl to help control portion sizes.
-Contact our Hagerstown office to schedule your first GYN exam between 13-15 years of age.
