What is adolescence?

Adolescence is the transitional time zone between dependent childhood and adult independence. Adolescence is a difficult, often turbulent, time as girls must rapidly come to terms with the physical and emotional changes associated with womanhood. Friction between parents and adolescent is a frequent occurrence, particularly when there is disagreement on the degree of independence that is warranted.

Whilst there is some overlap with puberty, adolescence begins and finishes later. Gynaecological problems in childhood and adolescence may fall between the disciplines of paediatrics (the medical specialty of caring for babies and children) and gynaecology. There is a broad spectrum of normality. Parental anxieties may frequently compound the problems experienced at this difficult time.