Adolescent Medicine in Tucson, AZ
There are dramatic changes that occur between the ages of 10 to 19 years old when children shift into adolescence. They aren’t quite adults yet but they aren’t kids anymore, either. Adolescents have unique health needs from children, and here at Desert Willow Pediatrics, our pediatrician Dr. Joy Peskin specializes in providing comprehensive, compassionate, and judgment-free medical care to teens in Tucson, AZ.
Adolescence is a Major Stage of Life
There are a lot of psychological, cognitive, social, and physical changes that happen during adolescence that can impact how a teen feels and thinks about themselves and others. For adolescents to remain healthy, they need a pediatrician that they turn to regularly for health care. From substance use and sexual activity to fitness and diet, there are an array of topics that we will cover with your teen to make sure that we are providing the proper care they need to stay healthy and to prevent certain health risks, including:
- Smoking cessation or avoiding smoking
- Mental health problems
- Suicide
- Unintended pregnancies
- Car accidents
- Academic issues
- Nutritional and weight problems
- Sexually transmitted diseases
- Homelessness
Providing Compassionate Adolescent Care
We pride ourselves on providing a judgment-free zone where teens can feel comfortable and at ease opening up about any health problems or concerns they may have. We believe that providing a safe and open line of communications helps teens feel more likely to open up and share issues they may have. Sometimes teens may feel embarrassed to talk to their parents, and a doctor may be the only person or first person they open up to. This is why having a pediatrician that your teen trusts are paramount for their health and wellbeing.
Adolescent Gynecology
One major topic to address when it comes to teens is sexual activity and family planning, as well as gynecological health. A young woman between the ages of 13 to 15 years old should begin visiting a gynecologist once a year for checkups and screenings. A routine examination along with a Pap smear and regular STD testing can help teens stay healthy and safe. We have established a practice here in Tucson, AZ, that is built on trust. Whether your teen wants to discuss birth control options or they are experiencing symptoms of an STD, Dr. Peskin and her team are here to help.
