I am only 14 but would like to know where I can get birth control pills. Do I have to have a parent/guardian get them, or can I get them myself?

--Katie

Although the laws vary from state to state, most states allow a young girl to obtain contraception without her parents' consent. Many private physicians will provide contraceptive counseling and prescriptions to adolescents without written authorization from her parent or guardian. Planned Parenthood does the same, and is an excellent, low-cost option for care. You should be prepared to pay cash.

But before you rush out and get the pill you need to consider a few things. First, are you really ready to be having sex at age 14? Why are you having sex -- is it because you want to, or are you being pressured into it? Second, the pill does not prevent sexually transmitted diseases. Only condoms can decrease the chance of contracting a STD. Third, starting to have sex at such a young age does have implications for later health; women who start having sex very young are more likely to develop cervical cancer later in life.

I strongly encourage you to discuss your sexual activity with your parents. No, they will not be happy about it, but it is better for them to hear it from you than from one of your friends, or to find out after you get pregnant or contact a STD. If you feel that you absolutely cannot discuss this with your parents, then please seek medical attention before having sex any more. You need counseling about safer sex and about all the contraceptive options that are available.