Adolescent Care
Adolescent Care involves optimizing the second greatest growth cycle in childhood, second to baby’s first year. Adolescents go through profound growth and change physically, mentally, socially, emotionally and academically. These substantial changes require attentive pediatric care.
Los Gatos Pediatrics provide their experience and expertise to teenagers in Los Gatos, Saratoga, Cupertino, Willow Glen, San Jose and Campbell, California. Contact our office to make an appointment for adolescent care.
Adolescent Care Q&A
How often should we schedule adolescent care appointments?
An annual exam should be sufficient for most teens to monitor healthy growth. Teens with chronic conditions may need to visit Los Gatos Pediatrics more often.
Teens also visit our pediatric office for specific purposes such as sports physicals or clearances. Adolescent care also includes injury care, acne treatment, ADHD consultation, growth irregularities, etc.
What happens at annual appointments?
Los Gatos Pediatricians will measure your teen’s vitals, such as blood pressure and pulse. We also check height and weight to assure healthy growth and development.
Adolescent care also includes booster shots per schedule. Some teens may need to undergo blood tests, to screen for chronic health problems. The annual exam is a good time to bring up any medical issues or health questions.
What are typical concerns addressed by adolescents?
The pediatricians at Los Gatos Pediatrics may also review other concerns raised by parents and teens. During adolescence, typical concerns include:
- Depression
- Body image
- Substance abuse
- Unprotected sex
- Social pressures
- Bullying
- ADHD
- Learning difficulties
Given our 70 years of experience, our pediatricians are very experienced with these issues. We help teens feel comfortable sharing their concerns through empathy and careful listening. Our pediatricians how important it is to provide a caring and supportive connection to facilitate open communication for issues that teens may find difficult to discuss.
Is information shared by teens with the pediatricians confidential?
Absolutely! Any information a teen shares with our pediatricians will remain confidential, unless the teen is in danger or at risk of harming themselves.
Teens who want to ask questions regarding sexuality, sexual behavior, sexually transmitted diseases, physical development, and other sensitive issues need to be reassured and assured that their privacy will be protected.
For more information, check out this Teen Learning Hub as well as the Centers for Disease Control.
Also check out our Services and Pediatric Resources pages for specific issues pertaining to teens.