Gynecology
Expert, compassionate gynecology care for children and teens—from birth through age 20
At Children’s Mercy, our Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology team is dedicated to supporting young patients and their families with specialized care from infancy through early adulthood. Whether your child is experiencing painful periods, hasn’t started menstruating, or needs help managing a complex condition like PCOS, endometriosis, or Turner syndrome, we’re here to guide you every step of the way—with empathy, expertise, and understanding.
Our board-certified gynecologists hold focused practice designations in pediatric and adolescent gynecology, and our advanced practice providers are specially trained to meet the unique needs of children and teens. We offer age-appropriate exams, clear communication, and emotional support in a warm, welcoming environment where your child’s comfort, privacy, and dignity are always our priority.
Conditions we treat
Gynecological concerns in children and teens can be confusing and stressful—for both families and young patients. Our team is here to help you understand what’s happening and provide the right care at the right time, so you can feel confident and reassured.
Common period concerns
- Irregular or missing periods (amenorrhea)
- Painful menstrual cramps and pelvic pain
- Heavy or unpredictable bleeding
Hormonal and ovarian conditions
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
- Turner syndrome
- Early ovarian failure / primary ovarian insufficiency
- Hormonal and ovulation disorders
- Ovarian cysts and other ovarian conditions
Pre-Pubertal and structural conditions
- Labial adhesions
- Pre-pubertal vaginal bleeding
- Vulvar conditions in children and adolescents
- Abnormal pubertal development
Genetic and complex diagnoses
- Turner syndrome
- Endometriosis in Teens Endometriosis in Teens
- Differences of sexual development (DSD)
Collaborative Care
We also work closely with multidisciplinary clinics to support children with:
- Bleeding disorders (with Hematology)
- Turner syndrome (with Great HeighTS Clinic) multidisciplinary clinic with availability of endocrinology, gynecology, cardiology, audiology, and developmental & behavioral specialists
- DSD (with GUIDE Clinic) GUIDE Clinic for Children with Differences of Sexual Development
- Colorectal and pelvic floor disorders (with Colorectal Center)
- Fertility concerns and preservation options Fertility Preservation
- Severe pain (with Pain Management Team)
If you’ve searched for things like “Why isn’t my daughter getting her period?” or “Teen with painful cramps,” you’re not alone—and you’re in the right place.
Services we offer
We offer a wide range of gynecology services designed specifically for children, teens and young adults. Whether your child needs help managing painful periods or navigating a complex diagnosis, our team is here to provide expert care in a way that feels safe and reassuring.
Medical and surgical services
- Hormone therapy for teens with delayed puberty or early ovarian failure
- Fertility preservation for children and adolescents
- Minimally invasive surgery (laparoscopy)
- Outpatient procedures tailored for young patients
- Research Opportunities (build out - new content coming soon)
Contraceptive planning during or after chronic illness
Our team offers specialized contraceptive care for young patients whose medical needs require a more tailored approach. We provide options like IUDs and implants, with sedation available when appropriate to ensure comfort and safety. We also offer counseling and education for families exploring birth control options, helping them make informed decisions that align with their child’s overall health. By coordinating with other specialists at Children’s Mercy, we ensure your child receives comprehensive, compassionate support every step of the way.
What to expect
We understand that visiting a gynecologist—especially for children, teens, and young adults —can feel a little overwhelming. That’s why we’ve created a space that’s gentle, age-appropriate, and focused on making your child feel safe, supported, and truly heard.
To help us prepare for your child’s appointment, please be ready to share the following information when our nurse reaches out:
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A current list of medications
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The names of any providers your child sees (such as a primary care doctor or specialists)
We’ll also do our best to request medical records, notes, and test results directly from your child’s other providers. Having this information helps us tailor the visit to meet your child’s needs.
Every appointment is tailored to your child’s age, comfort level, and medical needs. Some visits may include a physical exam, but not all exams involve a pelvic exam. These are only done when medically appropriate, and we’ll always talk through what’s needed—and why—before moving forward.
We follow the Children’s Mercy Comfort Promise, which means we do everything we can to ease anxiety and minimize discomfort. If your child feels nervous or unsure, our Child Life Specialists are here to help explain what to expect and offer emotional support. To schedule this service, please call 816-234-3840 (option 2) and ask to speak with a nurse.
We know that exams can feel intimidating, especially for younger patients. Our team takes time to explain each step in a calm, respectful way—and we always ask for your child’s permission before moving forward.
Before you leave, we’ll work together to create a care plan that fits your child’s needs and your family’s goals. Whether it’s managing period pain, starting hormone therapy, or exploring treatment options for conditions like PCOS or endometriosis, we’ll make sure you feel informed, empowered, and supported.
Fertility preservation: One family’s story
Six years ago, Grace’s family chose an experimental fertility preservation procedure while she underwent treatment for Ewing sarcoma, ensuring she would have options for her future. Today, Grace is cancer-free, and her family is grateful for the proactive steps that gave her autonomy and hope for a full life.
Endometriosis: Avery and MK’s story
Siblings Avery and MK both struggled with the pain of endometriosis. Holistic care from the Children’s Mercy Gynecology department has helped them get back to normal teen activities.
Endometriosis: Taylor’s story
When 13-year-old Taylor Stewart seemed to be getting sicker and sicker with abdominal pain, nausea and weight loss, she turned to Children’s Mercy and the Endometriosis Care program. That’s where she was diagnosed and treated for the debilitating condition, endometriosis. Today, she’s feeling much better, getting back to her busy routine as an active teen.
Planning for surgery
From free valet parking at the front door to personalized follow-up care during your child’s recovery, we want every aspect of your experience at Children’s Mercy to be beyond your expectations.
Read about how to prepare your child for scheduled surgery, what to expect when you arrive, and resources available while you’re here.
Pediatric anesthesia at Children's Mercy
At Children’s Mercy, a pediatric anesthesiologist is an active member of your child’s care team before, during and after their surgery or procedure.
We administer anesthesia for more than 27,000 kids per year—that’s 74 per day—so our team is experienced at finding just-right doses of medication for kids of all sizes.