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What is Birth Control? Deciding on a Method Emergency Contraception Where/How to Get Birth Control Confidentiality Using Birth Control Types of Methods & How They Work Common Myths
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Ask the Experts Frequently Asked Questions
Girls' Health
Can I go to the gynecologist without my parents knowing?
Yes. Most clinics, like Planned Parenthood, are completely confidential, meaning your parents won't know. But to be sure, when you call to make an appointment, ask them about their policy. (Questions to ask: Will they call you at home and identify themselves? Will they send a bill to you? Will they send other mail?) Since each clinic works a little differently, this is the best way to know for sure.
Usually, family planning clinics ask your permission to send things home and they use plain, unmarked envelopes. If you do not want to give your home address, you could give a friend's address, as long as you have your friend�s permission. Also, if clinic staff need to get in touch with you over the phone, they�ll usually tell you a code name they use, instead of identifying themselves as a clinic. So, you might get a message that �Wanda� called and you�ll know you need to call the clinic.
To find a clinic in your area either look in the yellow pages under �clinics� or "family planning clinics" or call 1-800-230-PLAN (7526) for the Planned Parenthood nearest you.