At what age should someone start seeing an OB/GYN?
Most young women benefit from a first visit between 13 and 15 — usually just a conversation, with no exam. After that, the timing depends on your life: contraception, painful periods, planning a pregnancy, or symptoms that need answers are all reasons to come in earlier than an annual schedule would suggest.
How often do I actually need a gynecologic exam?
Once a year for a well-woman visit, even in the years when a Pap test isn't due. Cervical cancer screening now runs on a three-to-five-year cycle for many women, but blood pressure, breast health, contraception, and symptom review still belong on an annual rhythm.
Do I still need an OB/GYN if I'm not sexually active?
Yes. Cycles, cramping, acne, hormones, bone health, and family history are all gynecologic questions that have nothing to do with sexual activity. A first visit can be a conversation only — nothing happens that you haven't agreed to.
Who performs the ultrasound — Dr. Kim or a technician?
Dr. Kim performs them himself. That means the person interpreting the images is the same person who knows your history, and you get the answer in the room instead of a call three days later.
What is concierge maternity care, and when do I decide?
It's a membership that covers the extras insurance doesn't pay for: longer visits, direct access to Dr. Kim, and one physician from first visit through delivery. You don't decide up front. Come in, get your early ultrasound, and choose at around ten weeks — once your pregnancy is established.
What does concierge care cost, and does insurance still apply?
The concierge fee is separate from medical billing and covers the additional access, time, and services that insurance does not reimburse. Insurance is still billed for covered medical care in the usual way. We will review the current program options and provide the full cost in writing during your consultation before you make any decision.
Where does Dr. Kim deliver?
Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, where he spent fifteen years on the OB/GYN residency faculty. Our office is minutes away, which matters more than it sounds like it does at 3 AM.
What can be done about painful or irregular periods?
A great deal, once the cause is identified — fibroids, endometriosis, PCOS, thyroid issues, and structural causes all look similar from the outside and are treated very differently. Evaluation may begin with an in-office ultrasound; when blood work is needed, the lab is in the neighboring building. Treatment options range from hormonal management to minimally invasive surgery.
Can an OB/GYN help with perimenopause and menopause symptoms?
Yes, and the options are broader than most women are told. Hot flashes, sleep disruption, mood changes, vaginal dryness, and bone loss are all treatable, with hormonal and non-hormonal approaches chosen around your own risk profile rather than a blanket rule.
Do you see patients for second opinions?
Often. If you've been told you need surgery, or you've been given a diagnosis that didn't come with an explanation you understood, bring the records and we'll go through them together. A second opinion visit carries no obligation to transfer your care.
How quickly can I be seen as a new patient?
Usually within the same week, and sooner if you're newly pregnant or something is worrying you. Because the panel is capped, we're not booking new patients eight weeks out the way larger practices have to.
