When you go to a free clinic to get birth control, do you have to be examined by a doctor before you can get it?
– Dariya*
Not always. Until recently, women expected to have a pelvic exam before a doctor would prescribe any kind of birth control. Now experts agree that a physical exam is not necessary before starting birth control.
There are specific reasons to have a pelvic exam, such as if you have:
- pelvic or abdominal pain
- abnormal vaginal discharge or abnormal bleeding
If these don't apply to you, let the clinic or doctor's office know that you don't want an exam when you make your appointment.
*Names have been changed to protect user privacy.
Medically reviewed by: Lonna P. Gordon, MD
Date reviewed: January 2022