Teen Visits

Teenage years is a time of rapid physical, emotional, and social development.

We recognize that adolescents face unique healthcare challenges and that's why we offer inclusive, age-appropriate care tailored to youth and young adults up to 21 years of age. Ensuring adolescents have access to comprehensive healthcare not only promotes their physical well-being but also sets the foundation for healthy habits that can last a lifetime. From addressing the unique challenges of puberty to providing guidance on mental health and healthy relationships, we take a holistic approach, emphasizing sensitive and open communication for effective treatment.

Birth Control for Teens: A Comprehensive Guide to Reproductive and Adolescent Health

As teenagers go through significant physical and emotional changes, understanding their healthcare options is essential. One of the most important aspects of adolescent health is birth control for teens, which serves not only as a contraceptive measure but also as a solution for various medical conditions. At Thrive Pediatrics, we provide a safe and supportive space where teens and parents can discuss contraception, STD testing, and the physical development in teenagers to make informed healthcare decisions.

Why Birth Control is Important for Teens

Birth control is often associated solely with pregnancy prevention, but it offers several additional health benefits for teens. Many young girls use hormonal contraception to manage conditions such as: Dysmenorrhea (Severe Menstrual Cramps): Hormonal birth control helps regulate the menstrual cycle and reduce painful cramps by thinning the uterine lining and decreasing prostaglandin production. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Teens with PCOS often experience irregular periods, excessive hair growth, and acne. Birth control pills help regulate hormones and improve symptoms. Heavy or Irregular Menstrual Bleeding: Birth control can reduce excessive bleeding and make periods more predictable, preventing anemia in teens with heavy cycles. Endometriosis: Birth control can help slow the growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus, reducing pain and other symptoms. By offering personalized guidance, our pediatric providers ensure that teens receive the right birth control method tailored to their health needs and lifestyle.

Choosing the Right Birth Control Method

With various birth control options available, selecting the right method depends on medical history, personal preference, and lifestyle. Common options include: Birth Control Pills: A daily oral contraceptive that regulates cycles, reduces acne, and manages menstrual symptoms. Birth Control Patch: A skin patch that releases hormones to prevent pregnancy and regulate periods. Birth Control Shot (Depo-Provera): An injection given every three months that prevents ovulation.Hormonal IUD: A small, T-shaped device inserted into the uterus, effective for 3-7 years. Non-Hormonal Copper IUD: Provides long-term birth control without hormones, lasting up to 10 years. Birth Control Implant (Nexplanon): A small rod placed under the skin of the arm, effective for up to 3 years. Each method has different benefits and potential side effects, and our clinic helps teens and their families make informed decisions.

STD Testing and Sexual Health Education for Teens

Ensuring that teens understand the importance of STD testing is just as crucial as discussing birth control. Many sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can be asymptomatic, making routine screenings essential for early detection and treatment. We provide confidential, judgment-free STD testing and education on safe sex practices, including condom use and communication skills for discussing protection with partners. At Thrive Pediatrics, we believe that sexual health education should be accessible and stigma-free, allowing teens to take charge of their health confidently.

A Supportive Pediatric Clinic for Teen Health

At Thrive Pediatrics, we prioritize open communication and individualized care. Whether discussing birth control for teens, STD testing, or general adolescent wellness, we provide a welcoming environment where teens feel heard and respected. Our team works closely with families to ensure that teens receive the best care while respecting their privacy and autonomy.

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Is COVID-19 testing available at your clinic?

Yes, we offer COVID-19 testing for our patients who meet the criteria for testing based on current public health guidelines. Please contact our clinic to schedule a testing appointment or to discuss testing options for your child.
What should I do if my child tests positive for COVID-19?

If your child tests positive for COVID-19, it's essential to follow the guidance provided by public health authorities. Recently, the CDC has shifted its COVID-19 guidelines toward managing it like other respiratory viruses such as the flu or RSV. If you test positive for COVID-19, you should stay home and avoid contact with others until symptoms improve and you’ve been fever-free for at least 24 hours. If asymptomatic, there’s no need to isolate, but wearing a mask and keeping distance from others for five days is recommended to reduce transmission risks. If your child has mild symptoms of COVID-19, such as fever, cough, or fatigue, you can help manage their symptoms by ensuring they get plenty of rest, staying hydrated, and providing over-the-counter medications such as Tylenol or Motrin (for infants 6 months and older).
When should I seek medical attention for my child with COVID-19?

You should seek medical attention for your child with COVID-19 if they experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain or pressure, confusion, inability to stay awake, bluish lips or face, or dehydration. Additionally, if your child has underlying medical conditions or is at high risk of developing severe COVID-19 symptoms, please contact us for additional guidance.
Can my child receive monoclonal antibody treatment or antiviral treatment for COVID-19?

Monoclonal antibody treatment is only considered for children who are at high risk of developing severe COVID-19 symptoms and meet certain criteria outlined by public health authorities. We do not offer such treatment in our office. As of the current CDC guidelines, the antiviral medications recommended for treating COVID-19 in children include remdesivir and oral antiviral medications such as molnupiravir. These medications are approved for emergency use authorization (EUA) by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of COVID-19 in certain populations, including those who are at high risk of developing severe symptoms and meet certain criteria outlined by public health authorities. The decision to prescribe antiviral medication is based on various factors, including the child's age, underlying medical conditions, and the severity of their illness.