Back-to-school season is an exciting time full of new opportunities, friendships, and routines. For teen girls in Memphis, it also means balancing academics, extracurriculars, and social life while navigating the unique physical and emotional changes of adolescence. At Memphis Obstetrics & Gynecological Association,we believe back-to-school health should be top of mind for every family with a teen girl.
This guide covers what you need to know to help your daughter stay healthy, confident, and prepared this school year.
The Health Challenges Teen Girls Face
Teenage girls are going through a lot: physical development, hormonal shifts, emotional stress, peer pressure, and a growing awareness of their health and identity. Here are just a few challenges that many parents will see their kids face:
- Irregular or painful periods
- Acne and skin changes
- Mood swings and anxiety
- Sleep disturbances
- Nutritional deficiencies (especially iron)
- Body image concerns
- Reproductive health questions
An OBGYNcan help. At Memphis Obstetrics & Gynecological Association, our providersoffer compassionate, age-appropriate care that includes:
- Period management and menstrual education
- Treatment for acne and hormonal issues
- Support for emotional health and stress
- Early education about sexual and reproductive health
- Screenings for anemia and other common concerns
Regular well-woman visits create a trusted space where teen girls can ask questions and feel empowered about their health.
Back-to-School Health Tips for Teen Girls
Starting a new school year is the perfect time to reset healthy habits. These back-to-school health tips are especially helpful for teen girls in Memphis navigating middle or high school:
- Get Enough Sleep: Teens need 8–10 hours of sleep per night. Set a regular bedtime, even on weekends.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring a reusable water bottle to school. Dehydration can worsen mood and focus.
- Pack Smart Snacks: Nuts, fruits, yogurt, and whole grains give long-lasting energy and support hormonal balance.
- Stay Active: Join a school sport, take PE seriously, or walk with friends after class.
- Manage Periods at School: Keep extra supplies in your backpack. Talk to a provider if periods are painful or heavy. Birth controlmight be recommended to help manage irregularity and other symptoms.
- Limit Screen Time Before Bed: Blue light affects sleep. Try to unplug an hour before bedtime.
- Mental Health Matters: Encourage journaling, mindfulness, or speaking to a counselor when stress builds.
- Hygiene Habits: Acne is common, but regular face washing and not sharing makeup can help reduce breakouts.
- Prioritize Preventive Care: Annual visits with a gynecologist can detect issues early and give girls the tools to stay healthy.
FAQ: Back-to-School Health for Teen Girls
When should my daughter first see an OBGYN?The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends the first visit between the ages of 13 and 15. This doesn’t always involve a pelvic exam; it’s often just a chance to ask questions and build trust with a provider.
What should she bring to school during her period?Pads, tampons, or menstrual cups (depending on age/comfort), extra underwear, and pain relief like ibuprofen in a nurse-approved format.
How can I help my teen feel comfortable talking about her body?Normalize conversations about health at home. Use real terms and listen without judgment. Regular checkups at Memphis Obstetrics & Gynecological Associationcan also help reinforce confidence.
Is irregular bleeding normal for teens?Yes, especially in the first few years of menstruation. But if periods are excessively heavy, painful, or very irregular, it’s worth checking in with a provider.
Does she need the HPV vaccine?Yes. The HPV vaccine helps prevent cervical cancerand is recommended for preteens and teens. This vaccine has been safely administered to millions of teenagers and presents an excellent preventative measure against cervical cancer.
Why Memphis Families Choose MOGA
Our practice has been a trusted name in women’s health for 40 years.We offer:
- A warm, welcoming environment focused solely on women and girls
- Over 35 experienced providers, including compassionate nurse practitioners
- A preventive approach to lifelong health, starting in the teen years
- Multiple Memphis-area locations for easy access
- On-site screenings, education, and a supportive care team
Whether your teen is just starting middle or high school, or she’s headed off to college, we’re here to help her feel confident navigating her changing health.
Start the School Year Strong
Back-to-school health is about making sure your daughter is equipped—physically, mentally, and emotionally—for the challenges ahead. From regular checkups to advice on nutrition, periods, and emotional well-being, Memphis Obstetrics & Gynecological Associationis here for families in the Mid-South every step of the way.
Schedule your teen’s well-woman visittoday in East Memphis, Wolfchase, or DeSoto, and set her up for a healthy, happy school year!
