Amenorrhea
Introduction Puberty is defined as the acquisition of adult height, bone strength, sexual characteristics, and reproductive capacity. Female puberty is divided between multiple stages, the first of which is thelarche…
Menstrual and reproductive concerns in adolescents with disabilities
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that over 12 million children and adolescents have a diagnosed developmental disability. This number is on the rise, especially with the…
Dysmenorrhea and endometriosis in the adolescent female
Introduction Dysmenorrhea, which is pain associated with menstrual cycles, has a significant impact on the day-to-day functioning of adolescents. This chapter aims to review dysmenorrhea and endometriosis (the most common…
Prepubertal vaginal bleeding
Introduction Prepubertal vaginal bleeding is the onset of vaginal bleeding that occurs before the normal age of puberty and may occur both with and without preceding pubertal milestones. Although many…
The normal menstrual cycle
Introduction The menstrual period is a key marker of health. In fact, many professional medical organizations recommend that the menstrual cycle be considered a vital sign, as timely identification of…
Abnormal puberty
Introduction Puberty can be a source of much concern for adolescents. As children become more self-aware, they also become more aware of comparisons: Why don’t I have breasts yet? My…
Pediatric gynecologic examination
Introduction The pediatric gynecologic examination (PGE) should only be performed when indicated. Unnecessary PGE in both the child and adolescent can lead to overmedicalization of their conditions, feelings of exploitation,…
Normal puberty
Introduction The period of human growth and development that occurs during adolescence is commonly referred to as puberty. This chapter focuses on normal pubertal changes, including sexual maturity and physical…
Common menstrual concerns in the adolescent
Introduction Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) is the most common complaint among adolescents reporting to a gynecologist. They may present with bleeding that lasts for several weeks at a time or…
Care of the transgender and gender diverse adolescent
Introduction Transgender and gender diverse (TGD) adolescents are those whose gender identity differs from their sex assigned at birth ( Table 3.1 ). Although the prevalence of gender diversity in…
