NASPAG HISTORY

Pediatricians and gynecologists have long recognized that children and adolescents have distinct healthcare needs and are not simply “small adults.” This understanding—particularly in reproductive health—led to the emergence of the subspecialties of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology (PAG) and Adolescent Medicine more than a century ago. Both fields developed as multidisciplinary efforts, bringing together clinicians, researchers, and educators dedicated to improving care for young patients.

Internationally, the field advanced through early clinical programs and academic leadership, culminating in the founding of the Federation Internationale de Gynecologie Infantile et Juvenile (FIGIJ) in 1971, which formalized global collaboration. In parallel, the growth of Adolescent Medicine—including the establishment of the Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine (SAHM)—provided essential foundations for structured training, research, and advocacy.

In North America, PAG gained momentum in the mid-20th century through pioneers across pediatrics, gynecology, endocrinology, and adolescent medicine. The foundation for a dedicated North American society was established in August 1986 at the 8th International Symposium of FIGIJ in Washington, D.C. Following this meeting, the North American Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology (NASPAG) was formally incorporated. Under the leadership of its founding members, the Society began with a mission to advance education, research, clinical care, and advocacy in PAG.

NASPAG’s core mission includes:

  • Serving as a leading provider of education, research, and clinical expertise in pediatric and adolescent gynecology
  • Promoting multidisciplinary and interprofessional collaboration
  • Advocating for the reproductive health and well-being of children and adolescents through unbiased, evidence-based care

From an initial 88 members, NASPAG has grown to more than 500 and has become the premier educational organization in the field. A key milestone was the launch of its peer-reviewed journal, the Journal of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology (JPAG), first published in 1987. Dr. Paul McDonough served as the inaugural Editor-in-Chief, followed by Dr. Joseph Sanfilippo, who led the journal until 2016. Today, under the leadership of Dr. Paula Hillard, JPAG continues to publish influential basic science and clinical research spanning care from infancy through early adulthood.

Over nearly four decades, NASPAG has played a central role in shaping and formalizing the subspecialty through:

  • Expansion of fellowship programs across the United States and Canada
  • Development of curricula, clinical consensus statements, and patient education resources
  • Creation of research collaboratives, including the NASPAG Research Network
  • Formalized advocacy efforts (since 2016) in partnership with organizations such as ACOG, AAP, and SAHM

In 2018, the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG) established a Focused Practice Designation in Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology, marking formal recognition of the subspecialty.

Today, NASPAG continues to advance the field through its Annual Clinical and Research Meeting, robust educational resources, and a growing international membership. The Society remains dedicated to improving the health and well-being of children and adolescents by advancing excellence in clinical care, education, research, and advocacy worldwide.

 
 

 

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