Being a woman means not only tons of responsibilities but also visiting a particular doctor called an ob-gyn who deals with some of the crucial health issues in your life. He/she will help you through puberty, childbirth, choosing birth control, pregnancy and preparation for pregnancy, as well as menopause, as well as performing screenings for diseases and infections and treating them. 

All women should have an annual exam with their gynecologist from around the age of 13-15. For teens who aren’t sexually active, one visit after their first period is enough if nothing else is bothering them.

What does a visit to ob-gyn consist of?

Conversation: Your doctor will ask you questions to help them decide what exams and tests to perform. 

• General exam (blood pressure, weight, height, and body mass index)
• Breast exam 
• Pelvic exam (not performed if you’re a virgin, or only 3 times if you’re pregnant with no problems) 

Optional: 

• a Pap test (from 3 years after you become sexually active and then every 3 years unless otherwise recommended) 
• Pelvic organs ultrasound screening 
• HPV screening (every 3 years after the age of 29)
• Blood, urine, and STD screenings

When is it best to visit an ob-gyn?

• If a planned visit - 3 days after the end of your period (e.g. if your period lasts 5 days, it will be the 6th to 8th day of your cycle)
• If you have any complaints - any day of your cycle  

What should I do before visiting my ob-gyn?

• Don't douche
• Avoid sex for 48 hours before the visit
• Avoid having a bikini wax
• Go to the toilet, your intestine should be empty
• If you’re planning to have an analysis only, it’s recommended you don’t urinate for 1-1.5 hours before the exam
• If your doctor suggests that you get a vaginal ultrasound, you should empty your bladder right before the exam
• Don’t drink alcohol for 24 hours before the visit
• Take a shower and put on clean underwear

The first three days after your period is the best time to schedule your visit to an ob-gyn.

Sources:

Women’s Health stats & facts, acog.org

What to Expect From an Ob-Gyn Visit, webmd.com

How to Prepare for a Visit to the Gynecologist, healthcentral.com