Talking with parents about birth control, like the Pill, might seem awkward. But they could surprise you — many are open to it because you’re showing them that you want to be safe.

Some people feel like they can’t go to their parents, though, or don’t want them to know they’re having sex. In this case, you can still get birth control from your doctor, a health clinic like Planned Parenthood, or a school’s student health center. During the visit, you can ask questions and learn what birth control method is best for you.

Is What I Say Private?

When you talk with a doctor, what you say stays private. The doctor can’t share the information with your parents unless you say it’s OK.

If you go to a student health center, check its privacy rules first.

What About Health Insurance?

Many kinds of birth control are covered by health insurance. If you’re on a parent's plan, they may know if insurance pays for it when the see the bill. You can pay for birth control without using health insurance, but it will likely cost more.

Often, it's cheaper to get birth control from a health clinic than from a doctor's office.

What Else Should I Know?

One type of birth control pill is available online and in places like drugstores. Though you don’t need a prescription to get it, it’s still a good idea to talk with your doctor first. You can find out if it’s right for you and how to take it correctly.

Another benefit of seeing your doctor is learning about sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and how to help prevent them. STDs can spread through vaginal, anal, or oral sex; using fingers; or by other sexual contact. That’s why it’s important to use a second method of birth control — like a condom, finger condom, or dental dam — each time you have sex.

The only method that fully prevents STDs and pregnancy is abstinence (not having sex).