Toddlers turn into half-grown teenagers faster than parents can sometimes imagine. This means that the time for another comprehensive health check is approaching. After the U examinations, the J1 examination is due for your child between the ages of 12 and 14. As part of the early detection program, in addition to a physical and mental health assessment, the recommended vaccinations are also checked.

The J1 between the ages of 12 and 14 is a routine health check in adolescence. The costs of the check-up are covered by statutory health insurance, as are catch-up vaccinations and, if necessary, the HPV vaccination and the meningococcal C vaccination. The examination is usually carried out by your child's pediatrician. However, your son or daughter also has the option of going to another doctor if they wish.

Because your teenage child is now old or mature enough and questions often seem awkward in front of parents during puberty, your child is welcome to attend the doctor's appointment alone. Whether alone or accompanied by a parent - you should leave this decision up to your child.

During J1, various age-appropriate examinations are carried out and a relaxed discussion is held to determine whether there are any abnormalities in behavior and development. The aim is to identify abnormalities as early as possible and, if necessary, to make appropriate treatment suggestions. If problems are identified, for example poor posture or pain due to growth spurts, these can be treated at an early stage at J1.

The physical examinations include:

• Measure height and weight
• Listen to the heart and lungs
• Measure blood pressure
• Examine organs and the skeletal system
• Check the status of pubertal development and the age-appropriate development of the sexual organs
• Examine urine sample
• Draw blood and check blood values
• Check the vaccination record for completeness and make up for missing vaccinations if necessary

Another part of the J1 examination is an open consultation about personal matters. The discussion covers mental health, eating habits, school development and any abnormalities. For example, the doctor will ask questions on topics such as

• Relationship with caregivers
• Difficulties at home, at school or with friends
• Worries and anxieties
• Sleep disorders, migraines, asthma
• Eating behavior and weight problems (overweight, underweight)
• Skin problems during puberty
• Sexuality and contraception
• Addictions such as alcohol and drug use

The examination and answers to the questions are, of course, voluntary. The consultation takes place in a confidential atmosphere and the doctor is bound by confidentiality. This also applies to the parents. Information will only be given to the parents if the child agrees or if there is a risk to the child's life.

During the consultation, your child will also have the opportunity to ask questions about puberty and the changes in their own body. This is a good opportunity to address more intimate issues that may be embarrassing in front of parents or friends.

An important part of the J1 examination is checking the child's vaccination status. The doctor will check whether new vaccinations are due or refreshers are necessary. Your child will learn why complete vaccination protection is so important and what the vaccinations are all about.

The Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO) at the Robert Koch Institute recommends the HPV vaccination for all boys and girls aged 9 to 14 to prevent cervical cancer. If this vaccination has not yet been given, it can be given as part of J1. The same applies to the vaccination against meningococcus C, which protects against a serious bacterial disease that can lead to meningitis. If the vaccination against diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough and polio needs to be refreshed, this can be done in the form of a combined vaccination. This is recommended for the age of 9 to 16 years.

Discussions in the family about the necessity of a J1 examination are not uncommon. During puberty, it is quite normal for children to be resistant to their parents' wishes. But perhaps your daughter or son can be persuaded with good arguments:

• The J1 examination offers the opportunity to identify health risks at an early stage and do something about them or, even better, to be reassured that everything is in order.
• Sometimes there are physical abnormalities during puberty that can be treated very well if they are detected in good time.