Healthtalk.org has great information about who should visit their GP which talks about young people visiting the GP. Here is some of the information from the page:
Anyone can book an appointment with a GP if they feel able to do so. They don’t have to be over 16 and all consultations (appointments) are confidential (private). Appointments with the GP are confidential regardless of a person’s age. Doctors and nurses have very strict rules on confidentiality so that everything a patient tells them, their personal details and medical records are kept completely private…
If a patient is under 16 and doesn’t want to involve their parents, the doctor can treat them without telling their parents as long as the young person fully understands the choices they’re making.
When booking an appointment, you can request a chaperone. A chaperone is a person who is present usually during a physical examination and acts as a safeguard for all parties by witnessing continuing consent of the procedure.
You can also request a female GP if you would feel more comfortable speaking to a female.
We also have more information on what to expect when you contact your doctor.
Your doctor will probably want to examine your chest area. This might include your armpits and up to your collarbone. It can be helpful to wear loose clothing or separate top and bottoms.
It can feel embarrassing to talk to your GP about your chest, but they have seen it all before. Here are our tips for your GP appointment:
Write down when you first noticed the changes, and tell the GP.
If you have periods, write down when your last one was. The GP might ask.
Try to find out if anyone in your family has had breast cancer. The GP might ask you about that too.
- If you would prefer a female GP you can ask for this when you book the appointment. You can also ask to see a male GP if you prefer.
- Ask a family member or a friend to be with you for support.
- Write down any questions for your GP and take them with you to your appointment.
- Write down when you first noticed the changes, and tell the GP.
- If you have periods, make a note of when your last one was, as the GP might ask.
- Try to find out if anyone in your family has had breast cancer. The GP might ask you about that too.