What should i expect when i go to the doctor to get birth control?
We can’t tell you an exact play-by-play of what to expect — a lot depends on your health situation and your health care provider. But there’s some stuff you can probably expect to happen when you get a prescription for birth control.
Your health care provider will want to talk with you about your medical history and check your blood pressure. You might also need a pelvic exam. Your health care provider may also want to know about your sex life and sexual history: how many partners you’ve had, what kind of birth control you currently use, etc. You can also ask her/him any questions you have about birth control, and the two of you can talk about what type of birth control would work best for you. It’s important to be honest with your health care provider so she can get an accurate picture of your health and needs.
Once you get a prescription for birth control, you can buy it at a drugstore or health center. Prescription birth control can cost about $15 – $80 a month. A pelvic exam may cost an additional $35 – $250. If you have insurance, or if you qualify for Medicaid or another state program, the amount you’ll have to pay could be a lot less. Planning to visit your local Planned Parenthood health center for birth control? When you call to schedule your appointment, you can ask about costs and payment. Some health centers are able to charge according to income, and most accept health insurance.