Paediatric and Adolescent Gynaecology Flashcards
Describe the changes that occur during normal puberty
Increase in pulsatile secretion of LH from pituitary gland in response to an increase of pulsatile GnRH from the hypothalamus at night
Pulses then stimulate a rise in estradiol levels
What changes are observed during the adolescent stage in puberty?
Psychological/Behavioural Hormonal Changes Independence Peer Acceptance Decisions Over Future
What changes can parents observe during puberty?
Devolution in decision making, encouraging independence
What history should be taken?
Gynaecological - Age of Menarche - Cycle - Pain Sexual (in absence of parents) - sexual activity - contraception Weight gain/loss Exercise REMEMBER TO ADDRESS SEXUAL ABUSE
What should be examined ?
General, Breast, Gynaecological
Define precocious puberty?
Precocious puberty is defined as the appearance of secondary sexual characteristics before the age of 8 years in girls and 9 years in boys.
Define delayed puberty?
boys have no signs oftesticular development by 14 years of age
girls have not started to develop breasts by 13 years of age, or they have developed breasts but their periods have not startedby 15
What is vulvovaginitis?
Persistent vulval irritation or vaginal discharge is the most common reason for the gynaecological referral of a prepubertal girl
What is the peak age for vulvovaginitis?
three-seven years
How does vulvovaginitis present?
yellow-green offensive discharge, soreness and itching
What are the causes of vulvovaginitis?
Poor perineal hygeine, lack of estrogen, chemical irritation