Adolescence Care in Dubai

Overview

Adolescence begins with the physiologically normal onset of puberty and ends with the development of adult identity and behavior. Adolescence is a crucial transition period between childhood and adulthood. There are major physical, psychological, and social changes. The development occurs between the ages of 10 and 21 years.

Adolescents today face enormous social and academic pressures, as well as potentially worrying illnesses, habits, and behaviors, which can, in turn, adversely affect their health. Furthermore, when Puberty hits, several changes like erratic hormonal fluctuations and other physical growth occur in a young body.

There are concerns related to hormonal and physiological growth and well being, this phase of reproductive health is an opportunity to meet Specialists in adolescence care in Dubai, to assist teens and young adults with their complex physical, behavioral and reproductive health care needs.

Problems that arise during Adolescence

Menarche

Menarche is a very common phase during adolescence. It is basically the start of your period. Menarche, in other words, is the first time you menstruate. Menarche is a significant milestone that marks the start of your fertility. Having your period indicates that you are physically capable of conceiving (pregnancy) and having a baby unless you have a medical condition that hinders you from doing so.

When to see a doctor?

If your girl child gets her menarche before the age of nine (Early Menarche), you must consider consulting a doctor. If you haven’t had your period by the age of 15 (amenorrhea), our specialist, Dr. Pranjali Singh, will need to investigate the cause. She can prescribe treatments based on the cause of your period delay.

Delayed Puberty

Delayed puberty is a condition in which sexual development begins later than usual, usually after the age of 14 years. Diabetes, cystic fibrosis, and kidney disease are all medical conditions that can cause delayed puberty, but sometimes no cause can be found. Thyroid or pituitary gland disorders can cause delayed puberty. Malnutrition can also cause puberty to be delayed.

How is Delayed Puberty treated?

Treatment for delayed puberty is determined by the underlying cause. When the underlying cause is addressed, puberty often resumes normally. If the delayed puberty is inherited, treatment is generally not required. In some cases, hormone therapy may be used to treat the condition. This contributes to the development of secondary sexual characteristics. In other cases, surgery may be performed to address a physical issue.

PCOS

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition that is difficult to diagnose. The term ‘polycystic’ literally means many cysts. This refers to the ovaries’ many partially formed follicles, each of which contains an egg. These rarely reach maturity or produce fertilizable eggs.

Women with PCOS frequently have high levels of ineffective insulin or male hormones known as ‘androgens,’ or in some cases, both.

Treatment:

To avoid associated health problems, it is critical that all PCOS symptoms are addressed and managed long-term.

PCOS management can include the following, depending on your symptoms:

Lifestyle Modifications – Increasing your physical activity levels and eating a healthy diet can help to manage PCOS
Weight reduction if overweight – Research has shown that even five to 10 percent weight loss can provide significant health benefits
Medical Treatment – with hormonal therapy or medications.

Hirsutism:

Hirsutism is a female condition characterized by excessive growth of dark or coarse hair growth. This growth usually happens in a male-like pattern on the face, chest, and back. Hirsutism can lead to extra hair growth due to excessive male hormones (androgens), majorly testosterone.

When to see a doctor?

If you believe you have too much coarse hair on your face or body, or if you are experiencing severe or rapid hair growth or signs of virilization, consult our doctor about treatment options.

HPV Vaccination - An important step in adolescence care

More than 95% of cervical cancer is caused by sexually transmitted HPV.

HPV types 16 and 18, together responsible for approximately 70% of cervical cancer cases globally.

There is a vaccine available to protect against the human papillomavirus (HPV) types that cause the majority of cervical cancers, as well as some cancers of the anus, vulva (the area around the opening of the vagina), vagina, and oropharynx (back of the throat, the base of the tongue and tonsils). The vaccine also protects against the HPV types that cause the majority of genital warts.

The vaccine is most effective when administered before exposure to the virus.

Routine HPV vaccination is recommended for individuals between 11 and 12 years old. Vaccination can be given as early as age 9, providing better protection before exposure to the virus.