Adolescent gynaecology: a review of core conditions

In adolescent gynaecology clinic, we can encounter conditions that solely occur at this specific time in development and that we otherwise do not come across in other aspects of our working life. Though a patient may present with a ‘menstrual disorder’, this may well be the first manifestation of an endocrine disease or underlying congenital abnormality. When caring for adolescent gynaecology patients, it is essential we are alert to these possibilities, equipped with the specific knowledge pertaining to this patient group and that we investigate diligently so as not to miss a potentially serious condition. This article comprises key learning points for important adolescent gynaecology conditions including genital tract anomalies such as Mayer-Rokitansky-Kuster-Hauser and OHVIRA (obstructed hemivagina, ipsilateral renal anomalies) syndromes, genetic conditions such as Turner's syndrome, endocrine disorders such as androgen insensitivity and congenital adrenal hyperplasia, as well as abnormal uterine bleeding, primary ovarian insufficiency and polycystic ovarian syndrome.