sexual and Reproductive Health
There is ALOT of information out on there about sex. Too much in fact for this website. In general, it is good to have a trusting relationship with a primary care provider, who can help you navigate the types of health services and health-related decisions you might need.
Find a healthcare provider from your insurance provider, SPIDER, or if you are in Chicago, from Streetlight.
In the meantime, here are some links to health information we find helpful:
Find a medical care provider— Medicare.gov
Is this Normal? All about Your Period
Self: 10 Things to Know Before Your First Gynecologist Exam
Breast Self-Exam: What You Need to Know
HPV Vaccine: What You Need to Know
Birth control
Birth control is used to prevent pregnancy, to regulate periods, as well as for other gynecological reasons. Many different types of birth control have different levels of effectiveness. That means that depending on the type of birth control you use, there will still be a small chance you or your partner could get pregnant. It is also important to think about what type will work best for you- something you take every day or something that you get once a month or once every 5 years. You can find more information on types of birth control here.
Planned Parenthood offers free birth control to individuals who qualify. For more information visit Planned Parenthood’s website. Planned Parenthood also has an app that allows you to reorder your birth control from your phone, but you do need to meet with a provider once a year.
Abortion
There are a lot of reasons why someone may choose to terminate a pregnancy. Read about the law related to abortion in Illinois. If you are considering your options, this website can help to explain your legal options. After 24 weeks, a healthcare provider can terminate a pregnancy only if there are health concerns for the pregnant person or fetus. You are able to consent for abortion once you are 18. Before age 18, you have to get consent from a parent or guardian.