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Seeing the doctor
As you get older, it’s a good idea to get more involved in taking care of your own health. Getting involved with your health will not only help protect your body — it can make you feel really proud of yourself!
Of course, you don’t have to take care of your health by yourself. Work together with caring adults like your parents or guardians to protect your great, growing body.
Work closely with your doctor — and not just when you’re sick but also to prevent any problems. Your doctor will tell you how often you should come in for a checkup, which is usually once a year. Learn more about:
- People who provide health care
- Why you might see a gynecologist
- Ways to work well with people who provide health care
Your doctor or other health care provider can help you with everything from sports injuries to immunizations. You can start getting more involved by asking the doctor for tips in areas like nutrition, exercise, and safety.
If you have a health problem, girlshealth.gov can help you stay strong both emotionally and physically. Check out our information on illness and disability.
Tough topics
Your doctor can be a great resource on teen health topics that can be a little rough for you. These might include:
- How fast your body should develop during puberty
- Feeling unhappy for no obvious reason
- Worries about your eating habits
- The whole complicated topic of sex
- Pressure to smoke, drink alcohol, or use drugs
You may feel a little embarrassed to raise these issues, but doctors and nurses have heard about all this before — and they want to give you the support you need to stay healthy and happy.
Content last reviewed April 15, 2014
Page last updated May 30, 2014
