Understanding Annual Physicals for 14-Year-Olds: Genital Exams

Question
My 14-year-old daughter has never had a physical exam of her genitals by her doctor, though she attends annual physical exams. She is well into puberty (she got her period when she was 11.5). I'm wondering if a physical exam of her genitals(not necessarily an extensive gynecological exam, but at least a quick look) is a required, normal part of the exam, or if it is unimportant.

Answer
Your daughter does not need a gynecological exam (vulva, vagina, cervix, uterus, breasts) until she is either sexually active or has reached 21 years of age. Then she will need an annual PAP smear and a gyn exam. If, however, there is a problem (bleeding,  discharge,irritation, infection, inflammation, etc) then she should, indeed, have an exam of her genital area. However, routinely, there is no need unless she is having a problem.