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Getting birth control
17/f
So I know you give good advice about this kind of stuff. Me and my boyfriend want to have sex but I want to be prepared. We both decided we won't do it until I can get on birth control. He'll also use condoms of course.
Anyways, my parents wouldn't go for this at all. I live in California and I don't know if I can get birth control for free or if my parents will find out about it somehow or how much it'll cost if I do go.
I looked online at planned parenthood but it's not close by. I'm not sure if regular doctors office or a hospital would do the same?
Thanks!
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Want to answer more questions in the Sexual Health and Reproduction category?
Maybe give some free advice about: Birth Control Pills?
Thank you for the compliment.
Lets start with your concerns about your parents: Their is a Federal Law called HIPPA which stands for: Health Information Personal Privacy Act. Under this law since you are over the age of 14 you have medical privacy. This means you can visit a doctor in complete privacy confident in the fact that anything discussed with the doctor; any examination and treatment given, remains completely confidential.
Only you can release your medical information and this must be in writing. If anyone in the employ of your doctor were to release information about your medical treatment they are subject to a $10,000 fine and 5 years in prison. This includes the doctor. This also includes fire fighters and paramedics who might treat you in the event of an accident. You might want to carry a note in your purse allowing for the contact of your parents in the event of an accident.
To the best of my knowledge birth control is not distributed free by your regular doctor but is covered under most medical insurance plans. Of course any prescription copay would apply.
You are 17 and in most states you are above the age of consent. Meaning you can consent to have sex as long as your boyfriend is not more than 3 to 4 years older than you. No one will get into trouble with the law. You should look this fact up on line to make sure as the age of consent varies from state to state.
Should mom find your birth control pills, if that is the method you and your doctor decide upon. Just tell mom your doctor gave them to you to regulate your period as this is the primary method to do that.
Even though you may be covered under your parents health insurance, with the exception of that which may require parental permission, such as certain operations, you now control your medical being, not your parents. Mom cannot insist on being in the exam room with you if you do not want her there. The doctor must abide by your instructions in those instances and keep your medical confidentiality.
So, if you are covered under your parents insurance go see your GYN. Get a script for birth control and have it filled at your local pharmacy as you would any other prescription.
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