Teen Health Blog
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This blog features questions from teen patients and answers from our physicians. Questions are anonymous and we encourage you to submit your own questions using our online form. |
Recent Blog Posts
What is this lump on the inside of my thigh?
I found a lump on the inside of my thigh. I went on the webMD symptom checker and it said it was in the inguinal area of the leg. I'm not sure if that helps. But it feels like a cyst and moves a little and is about the size of an almond. There is also a smaller one the size of a pea next to it, and I am not sure what it is.
What do the doctors check at the yearly check ups?
I am a 12 year old girl, but about to turn 13 in 1 week. I haven't had my period at all. I haven't had an annual check up in about 4 years. I now know that I need to go at least once or twice every year and I am going soon. What parts of my body will they look at and touch? Will they do anything with my Boobs, "Down there" or my butt? I'm really worried. I keep rethinking that maybe I shouldn't go but I know I should go. Please help! What do the doctors do? I know every doctor is different but just an idea :)
What is the best way to deal with excess body hair?
My 12 year old has recently begun to shave underarm hair and is satisfied with the results. She is very concerned about dark upper lip hair that other children have commented on and heavy dark lower leg hair. What is the best approach to hair removal for the first time in these areas? Other parents have recommended bleaching the lip hair , waxing or laser removal. Some have suggested it best to wax leg hair rather than shave it the first time so it grows back lighter. Granted, we want our children to feel good about themselves as they are and I tell her she looks fine, but she is really wanting some help.
Do I have to let doctors check my privates?
I don't want to let the doctors check my privates. Can I tell them "no?" I know it's good to be truthful with your doctor, so don't give me the whole "it's best if you do...."
Is the HPV vaccine for boys, too?
I read in today's (July 13, 2010) Hampshire Gazette that the Gardasil vaccine is now recommended for boys. Do you think it has been tested long enough to be safe? Do you recommend it for boys? And, will you be offering it in your offices?
Do you talk about me when I am not in the room?
I recently went to the doctor and found out from my younger sister that while I was in the other room, the doctor and my mother were talking about a different doctor I should go see when I am sixteen. I am upset that I was not aware of any of this. If you can't talk about this with me, then why can you talk about me with my mom and while my little sister was listening?
Please help me with my miserable periods!
I am a 17 year old girl who has heavy periods, moderate to severe menstrual cramping with some burning sensation in my lower abdomen. My cramps sometimes cause me to miss school. I was on the birth control pill for awhile but it was making me nauseated so I stopped taking it. I have used a hot water bottle too, but it seems to make me bleed more. Is this normal? Should I be concerned about these symptoms and what can I do to relieve them?
I am upset about having my private area examined by the doctor my check up.
I am 13. Why does the doctor have to feel my “downstairs?” Is that legal?
What can I do about my ongoing constipation?
I believe I am currently suffering from constipation and I’m under 18! Without medication or high fiber drinks, I am unable to excrete. I can go up to more than a week without excreting, causing my stomach to feel very uncomfortable. In addition, I pass a lot of gas, up to 10 times an hour. What should I do?
Are you a pre-teen going through puberty? You are not alone...
I am a nine year old girl turning 10 pretty soon. I am starting to have breast development. (I already know it’s puberty). My Mom got me a training bra and I’m kind of embarrassed that my classmates will find out and laugh at me, especially the boys. What should I do?
Are you a Teenage Girl with Heavy Periods?
Question: I’m 14, turning 15 and my period has been the same since it started…heavy and 10 days long. I don’t like it at all but I don’t know what to do.
Wondering about smoking? Here are some quick facts on how it affects your health
I only smoke four cigarettes a day, which I say is not enough to cause any harm or cause me to become addicted. My Mom says even one cigarette can cause cancer and that I am addicted already. Who is right?
Are you a thin teenage boy and having trouble gaining weight? Here are some healthy ways to approach this common concern.
Question: What can underweight or lower weight teenage boys eat to gain pounds?
Trying out a vegetarian diet? Here's how to be smart about it.
I am 13 years old and would like to become a vegetarian. I like dairy and think that this is enough protein for me but my mom disagrees. Who is right?
