Can your primary doctor prescribe birth control

Surprisingly, lots of parents are more open to discussing sex and birth control than people think. Starting the conversation is the most difficult part since it can seem so awkward and embarrassing. If you can't talk to your folks, though, you can still get the Pill or the ring or patch from a health clinic like Planned Parenthood. It's usually prescribed in conjunction with a pelvic exam, pap test and breast exam as part of a woman's yearly reproductive health checkup.

Gynecologists and obstetricians usually work in their own offices, but also have offices in hospitals and clinics, such as Planned Parenthood. They may prescribe birth control for pregnancy prevention, but they may also prescribe it to treat other conditions, like endometriosis, polycystic ovarian syndrome, hormone imbalances or irregular, painful periods. Dermatologists are doctors who specialize in skin care and conditions.

Because birth control is commonly prescribed as an acne treatment, many women, especially teen girls, get their birth control from their dermatologist. You'll also know when the method will start protecting you from pregnancy.

In some practices, such as my own, if the person wants the arm implant or one of the IUDs, we usually offer insertion that day. The only method that would need a follow up appointment would be the injection for the next dose in 12 to 15 weeks," says Stanwood.

Scheduling a birth control appointment will help you assess your options and figure out which works best for you. There's no need to bring any documents or undergo blood screening before going to your appointment.

There are plenty of benefits to birth control that go beyond preventing pregnancy, like period regulation that helps manage painful menses or dysmenorrhea , heavy vaginal bleeding or menorrhagia , and endometriosis, says Pathy. Other benefits include polycystic ovarian syndrome PCOS therapy and a reduced risk of ovarian cancer. It's crucial to ask questions about the efficacy, side effects, potential risks, and ease of use of different birth control methods so you'll know what to expect.

Make sure to inform the clinician of any medical conditions that you have as it can affect the type of birth control they'll prescribe. I encourage people to reach out for alternate advice if they feel they are not receiving the information or care they need.

World globe An icon of the world globe, indicating different international options. Get the Insider App. Click here to learn more. If you feel certain you should go directly to a gynecologist, submit a referral request to your provider through your MyOne account. Your PCP will review your request and, if needed, refer you directly to a specialist without an office visit. Kyoko practices evidence-based medicine with an emphasis on empowering and encouraging her patients to take active roles in their health care.

With expertise in women's health, including prenatal care, reproductive health, and menstrual disorders, she manages a broad range of health concerns. Kyoko is board-certified in family medicine. Any general advice posted on our blog, website, or app is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace or substitute for any medical or other advice.

If you have specific concerns or a situation arises in which you require medical advice, you should consult with an appropriately trained and qualified medical services provider. Learn More Opens in a new window. Join today and experience primary care designed for real life, in-office and in-app.