Final answer:
A female should typically have her first gynecologist visit by age 21 for routine Pap smears and continue with regular screenings as recommended. Additionally, from puberty onward, self-awareness through monthly breast self-exams is suggested.
Step-by-step explanation:
A female should have her first gynecologist visit around the age of 21 or sooner if there are concerns such as irregular menstrual cycles or other symptoms. This recommendation is primarily because routine Pap smears, which screen for cervical cancer, are suggested beginning at the age of 21. Pap smears should continue every three years until age 50, then every five years until age 65, provided that previous tests were normal. Individuals who have had a history of abnormal Pap smears or cancer may be screened more frequently.
It's also recommended that females start practicing monthly self-exams for breast cancer, despite its rarity in teenagers, to become familiar with their own body and identify any changes early.
Girls going through puberty, especially around the time of menarche, should engage with their healthcare provider to understand the changes they are experiencing. While menarche and the beginning of menstruation generally occur around 12 to 13 years of age, it can vary significantly amongst individuals, with a normal range anywhere between eight and 16 years old.