Can minors (under 18) receive birth control in the U.S.? In the United States, 23 states (plus D.C.) allow minors to obtain birth control on their own, without consent from a guardian or parent. States have the ability to decide their own rules about a minor’s access to birth control. Here is a chart that breaks down each state’s decision regarding access to birth control for minors.  Unintended pregnancy rates in the United States are higher than in most developed nations, especially for underserved communities. Providing minors with education and affordable access to cont ..read more

    What is discharge? Discharge is fluid that comes out of the vagina and is a normal part of how the vagina functions. If you’ve ever noticed discoloration on your underwear, this is probably dried discharge. Discharge may vary in thickness, color, or smell. Healthy discharge is typically clear or white and does not smell, and is approximately the amount of a teaspoon per day. What causes discharge? Discharge is part of the way that your vagina takes care of cleaning itself. Certain activities or time periods might cause more discharge including sex, exercise, menstruation, pregna ..read more

    What is an ovarian cyst?  Ovarian cysts are small collections of fluid that develop on the ovaries. Your ovaries are where your body keeps follicles (eggs) and there are two of them, one on each side of your uterus. Ovarian cysts are normal and often don’t cause any issues, but sometimes they can cause complications, so this article will help you identify symptoms and discuss treatment options.    Image: https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/resources/uterus-cervix-ovaries-fact-sheet   What causes ovarian cysts?  Most commonly, ovarian cysts are formed as a res ..read more

    What is a yeast infection? A vaginal yeast infection occurs when there is too much of a particular kind of yeast, called Candida, in the vagina. Candida is a naturally occurring fungus that can be found in many places in the body. Vaginas have their own environment with a balance of bacteria and yeast. Although bacteria and yeast can be thought of as only bad things, they are actually completely normal and necessary to your health. When there is an imbalance in the bacteria or yeast, an infection can occur.  How common are yeast infections? Vaginal yeast infections are very ..read more

    Getting a blood clot from hormonal birth control is rare; between .03 and .09% of people experience a blood clot in a given year, meaning less than 1 in 1000 women who use birth control. It’s still important to know the potential side effects of birth control, so that you and your doctor can decide on an option that’s best for you.  What is a blood clot? Your blood exists in perfect harmony between substances that help keep your blood liquid and flowing and substances that help it form a clot (a clump of red blood cells, platelets and proteins). Clots help to stop bleeding ..read more

    What is endometriosis? Endometriosis is a condition where tissue that should grow inside of the uterus is growing outside of the uterus. The cause of endometriosis is unclear. It causes pain and discomfort, and can sometimes lead to fertility problems. People are typically diagnosed with endometriosis during their reproductive years, around 25-40 years of age.  What are common symptoms of endometriosis? Pain before and during your period  Painful cramps in your stomach and back pain Uncomfortable sex Spotting Heavy periods Infertility  How common is ..read more

    What is bacterial vaginosis? Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is an infection in your vagina, that is not an STI. Your vagina has healthy bacteria too, but when there is too much of the unhealthy bacteria and it is unbalanced, there can be an infection. BV is the most common vaginal infection for people 15 to 44 years of age.   What causes bacterial vaginosis? Bacterial vaginosis is caused by a disruption in the normal flora (bacteria) of the vagina and an overgrowth of other organisms that lead to an unbalanced environment in the vagina. Though not a sexually transmitted infe ..read more

    What are genital warts?  A wart is a small bump on your skin, and genital warts are located around your vagina and anus. Warts typically are not painful or dangerous and can be treated. There may be just one, or multiple, and they can range in size.  What causes genital warts? Genital warts are caused by a type of human papillomavirus (HPV), which is the most common STI. Some types of HPV are spread through sex, and it’s so common that many people don’t even know they’re infected because they don’t have any symptoms. While some other types of HPV can possibly lead to c ..read more

    What is PCOS? Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a condition where someone experiences dysfunction in ovulation (the ovary's ability to produce an egg) and there are higher levels of androgens (male sex hormones) in the body. Most individuals with PCOS develop the first signs of this syndrome when they enter adolescence. Ovulation is necessary to regulate menstruation, so irregular ovulation causes long intervals between periods and is usually followed by a heavy period.  The increased production of androgens results in hair growth on the body (upper lip, chin, sides of ..read more

    Contacting your insurance can be stressful; we’re here to help make it simple and empower you to take charge of your health.  How do I know what number to call? The number is often found on the back of your insurance card called “Member Services”. If you don’t have a physical card, you can check your online portal or simply google the name of your insurance plan (ex. Search “Aetna customer service phone number”). If you call early in the morning, there will likely be less of a wait time.  What should I expect when I call?  The customer service representative from ..read more