Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology
Pediatric gynecology focuses on the gynecologic care and wellbeing of infants, children and adolescents. The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology recommends that your child’s first pediatric gynecology exam take place between the ages of 13 and 15, but our team sees younger patients for issues involving injuries, infection and much more.
Our team is uniquely trained to care for pediatric patients. We speak to children with empathy at their level to ensure they receive comprehensive care. This means our team takes extra time with your child during gynecological exams. Our surgeons also have special training in the care of our youngest patients.
Our team cares for female patients up to age 21 before we transfer their care to the Vanderbilt Center for Women's Health.
Conditions We Treat
We treat all gynecological conditions, including:
- Delayed pubertal development
- Early pubertal development
- Hymenal abnormalities
- Labial adhesions
Meet Your Care Team
Celeste O. HemingwayMD, MHPE
- Adolescent and Young Adult Health, General Obstetrics, Gynecologic Surgery, Gynecology, Menstrual Disorders, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology
Tara A. NielsenDO, MPH
- Abnormal Uterine Bleeding, General Gynecology, General Obstetrics, Gynecology, Obstetrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Amy G. WeeksMD
- Adolescent and Young Adult Health, Contraception, General Gynecology, General Obstetrics, Gynecology, Menstrual Disorders, Obstetrics
Why Choose Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology at Vanderbilt
- Experienced care
Our team features board-certified gynecologic surgeons who provide a precise level of care at Vanderbilt without having to see an outside specialist. We also have the only specialists in Nashville who are board certified in both pediatric and adult obstetrics.
- Recognized care
We are designated as a Clinic of Excellence by the Foundation for Women & Girls with Blood Disorders.
- Guidance toward adult care
We strive to create positive early experiences with gynecologic care for young patients. Going to the gynecologist for your annual exam doesn't have to feel scary. We help move patients toward greater independence as they transition to adulthood, helping them to accept more responsibility for their ongoing health needs, including making decisions about contraception.
- Contraception counseling
The American Academy of Pediatrics and American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommend long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) as the most effective method for adolescent and young adults. These methods may include hormone-releasing contraceptive implants and intrauterine devices (IUDs), which are available to our patients in the office setting. We can begin many contraceptive options the same day as your appointment. We counsel patients and their families on birth control methods to help them decide what best meeds their needs.
Tests, Treatments and Services
We offer a full range of tests, treatments and services, including:
- Evaluation for menstrual disorders - irregular periods, heavy periods, dysmenorrhea or cramping with periods, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
- Screening and evaluation for sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- Contraceptive counseling - long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) such as implants, IUDs, birth control shot, oral contraceptive pills, patch, vaginal ring
- Counseling for menstrual suppression in girls with developmental delay or intellectual disabilities.
- Contraception options for the medically complex patient, such as girls with developmental delay or cognitive impairment with young women's health needs
- Pregnancy options counseling
- Well woman visits
- Gynecological surgery consultation and follow-up
- Hormonal screening
- Pregnancy testing