The Russian Ministry of Health has proposed changing the timing of the initial preventive examination for girls by an obstetrician-gynecologist from 14 to 13 years old, according to a draft decree reported by TASS. The shift reflects a broader policy discussion about how early life health assessments can support reproductive health from a younger age.
In the explanatory note accompanying the document, officials emphasize a modern approach focused on the early detection of reproductive health issues in adolescents. The proposal calls for reconsidering routine gynecological checkups for minors in light of ongoing changes in physiological development and the timing of puberty, with the aim of aligning medical practice with current understanding of female health trajectories.
The draft states that adopting the measure would not alter the targets, indicators, or expected outcomes of Russia’s state programs, nor would it compromise achievements within national and federal project goals. The intention appears to be a calibration of the age at which preventive gynecological care begins, rather than a shift that would affect broader health benchmarks.
Elena Uvarova, who holds the position of chief freelance gynecologist for children and youth at the Ministry of Health, is quoted as underscoring the importance of adjusting the examination timing. She argues that initiating gynecological oversight earlier could have meaningful implications for long-term health, including the preservation and promotion of reproductive health in adulthood.
There have been regional discussions about revisiting policies that restrict abortion services in private clinics. Some authorities in various regions have begun to reexamine their positions in light of evolving medical and regulatory perspectives. This broader health policy debate intersects with the proposed adjustment to the age of first gynecological examination, highlighting how regional administration and national guidance interact in shaping practice for minors.
Separately, medical professionals have addressed misinformation about health links in children. In particular, some doctors have refuted the claim that asthma is a determinant of severe outcomes in pediatric cases of Covid-19, clarifying that other factors contribute to risk and that asthma alone does not automatically translate to higher severity. This clarification remains part of ongoing public health education as clinicians emphasize evidence-based information for families and caregivers.
Overall, the proposed decree points to a shift in the framework for pediatric reproductive health surveillance. By reconsidering the starting age for gynecological evaluations, policymakers aim to support timely identification of potential concerns, promote informed health decisions during adolescence, and align medical practice with current clinical understanding. The dialogue around such changes continues to involve clinicians, health authorities, and regional bodies as they assess implementation and outcomes, while maintaining a focus on safeguarding the health of young people across the country. [Citation: TASS via the Russian Ministry of Health]