I want to start using birth control but I don't want to tell my parents. How can I get it without them finding out?

It can be hard for teens to talk to their parents about being sexually active. But surprisingly, many parents are open to discussing sex and birth control, especially if you show them that you want to act responsibly.

But if you feel like you can't talk to your parents, you can still look into birth control options and get sexual-health care. Make an appointment with your general doctor or . Or you can go to your local Planned Parenthood (or student health center if your school has one). Don't be afraid to discuss birth control or sex with your doctor. Thanks to doctor–patient confidentiality, your doc can't talk to your parents about these topics without your permission.

The Pill is covered by most health insurance, but if you are on your parents' plan, they may know if insurance pays for it. If you want to pay for the Pill yourself, it's about $15 to $50 a month, depending on the type.

If you do go on the Pill, you still need to make sure your partner always wears a condom to protect against STDs. Many Planned Parenthoods and student centers have condoms for either next-to-nothing or free.

If you've already had sex, make sure to be tested for STDs. STDs don't always cause symptoms, so people can be infected without even knowing it.