Birth Control Without a Pelvic Exam
PPCW offers Birth Control Online, which provides the pill and the Ortho Evra® patch through our website, with no exam necessary. After providing medical history over the internet and completing a medical screening with a nurse by phone, a patient may begin a contraceptive method.
"Do I have to have an exam to get birth control?"
Option #1 -- Starting Birth Control With a Pelvic Exam
You may get birth control by scheduling an appointment for an Initial exam and pap smear. Your contraceptive questions will be answered and the Nurse Practitioner will help you decide which method would be best for your needs. The exam will include checking your thyroid, listening to your heart and lungs, a breast exam, abdominal exam and pelvic exam. The pelvic exam includes an examination of your external genitals, an internal exam using a speculum, and a bi-manual internal exam. A pelvic exam should not hurt if you are healthy and relaxed but it may be a little uncomfortable. The clinician doing the exam will tell you exactly what she/he is doing so there should be no surprises. An annual pelvic exam is recommended for women who are sexually active or over the age of 18.
Option #2 -- Starting Birth Control Without an Exam
Another option for getting started on birth control is called "Hormonal Contraception with delayed or optional physical exam". PPCW allows you to do this in person at a health center or through our website (online purchases are only available for women who live in Oregon). With either option you will have your medical history evaluated, receive contraceptive counseling and help in choosing a birth control method that is best for you. You will be given an initial presecription of birth control pills, Ortho Evra® patch or Depo Provera® injections (Depo is only available in-health center, not online). You do not need to have an exam to begin contraceptives, however you will need to provide proof of normal blood pressure.
Questions? Please access our Online Health Center Ask a Nurse service. To contact the health center nearest you call 1.888.875.7820.
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