[Bri]

Hello, I was just wondering if it is better to go to a planned parenthood or just to my regular doctor to go on the pill? I can't decide which way would be less awkward and which way would be less expensive. I definitely am a poor college student so I dont' want to spend a lot but I am kind of paranoid so I think I would feel better with multiple forms of birth control. Has anyone gone to planned parenthoood and can tell me what its like? Thank you.

[KD22]

I wish I could go to my doctor for birth control but its just too expensive. I think its like 70 bucks with no insurance + the cost of the office visit. So I go to planned parenthood which most women think is fine but I REALLY miss my doctor. It was just cleaner and more organized and much more personal. Each planned parenthood is different so yours might be fine. The great thing about it is that its very cheap - its actually free for me because I make so little moola. But you'll probably see a different nurse practicioner each time you go in which is kinda sucky. It's really up to you if you have a choice I'd go with your normal doctor (if you feel comfortable talking with them about birth control) although the people at planned parenthood are very nonjudgemental which is nice. Just make sure you tell them what you want and ask ALL of the questions that you have and dont be pressured into one type over another... sometimes they get so busy they just throw pills at you and send you on your way - so you've gotta make yourself important! Being happy and comfortable with your birth control is really important! I'd do some research before you go too. Just look up different types like ortho tricylclen, ortho tricyclen low, nuvaring, and IUD's just so you know what they're talking about when you get there cuz they dont usually explain them in great detail. They give free condoms too so grab some when you're in the bathroom or ask when you're doing your consultation OH and one more thing. I would ask about HPV and the new shot they're giving for it. I got it before I even knew what it was and hadn't even had intercourse yet. It's important to know about it and protect yourself and your clinic might be giving the shot for free by now or soon!

[KISH]

You Can Actually Do Both. If You Want To...you May Phone Your Doctor (he Cant Charge Your For The Phone Call)and Ask Him What May Be The Best Bc Pills For You, And Be Sure To Talk To Him About The Side Effects. Then Based On The Information He Gives You, You May Then Go To Planned Parenthood And Get The Pill That Your Doctor Told You About. Good Luck.

[creativename]

You Can Actually Do Both. If You Want To...you May Phone Your Doctor (he Cant Charge Your For The Phone Call)and Ask Him What May Be The Best Bc Pills For You, And Be Sure To Talk To Him About The Side Effects. Then Based On The Information He Gives You, You May Then Go To Planned Parenthood And Get The Pill That Your Doctor Told You About. Good Luck.

I agree. I see a gyno at an actual office, but I get my BC from Planned Parenthood as it is much much cheaper for me (poor college student as well).

If all around cost is the problem I say stick with planned parenthood. They are trained and helpful and can do it all for cheaper. They may not be as fancy as doctors offices, but they are definitely a good choice.

[dawn9800]

How do you get your b/c at Planned Parenthood e/o getting an exam thhere? I would love that I have to go there since my insurance does not cover b/c but will cover a trip to the gyno!

[foresthall]

I don't have any insurance, so I go to Planned Parenthood for my pills. I do go to my regular gyno for my exams. I do not feel comfortable with the staff at Planned Parenthood for that. Call Planned Parenthood and tell them you want to start taking the pills. If you already had an exam elsewhere they will just need the proof and information so they can give you the pills. You will have to set up an appointment though. If you have not had an exam they will require that. It cost me about $50 with my first pack of pills and the visit to give them my info from the other doctor. After that it is $21 per pack. Plan on a yearly visit/checkup at P.P. for another $50. I had gone their for a year now and decided not to return. It is very inconvient to get there working full time. Check with your pharmacy and ask what the cheapest BC pill they have then call your gnyo and tell them your looking for a prescription for that bracnd. Look for generic brands they can save a lot of money.