Committee opinion no. 626: the transition from pediatric to adult health care: preventive care for young women aged 18-26 years.

Abstract

Young women (aged 18-26 years) are a heterogeneous population transitioning from adolescence into adulthood who may present with unique issues and challenges, including a potential gap in health care after pediatric health care. Obstetrician-gynecologists should note that these patients may need assistance in transitioning from a pediatrician to a provider of adult health care (an internist, family practitioner, or obstetrician-gynecologist), especially in the absence of a parent. Preventive counseling is crucial for helping young women anticipate changes and stressors and for easing their life transitions. A preventive health care visit offers the obstetrician-gynecologist an opportunity to screen for health issues and counsel the patient about a variety of health topics, some of which are particularly relevant to young women.