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 contraception is one way to avoid unintended pregnancies. Research shows that 59 percent of sexually active teenagers would stop or delay receiving reprodutive healthcare services if they had to notify their parents. As a result, there are organizations, like the ACLU and Advocates for Youth, working on providing better access and doctor/patient confidentiality for minors in the U.S. who are unable to get consent.
Many states that require consent from a parent or guardian also have exceptions that allow a minor to receive birth control on their own. For example, if the individual is married, has been pregnant, is legally emancipated (someone under the age of 18 is their own legal guardian), or has specific health reasons, they may be able to get birth control without consent.
We currently serve anyone (without parental consent) starting at the age of 13 years old & above in CA, CO, DC, DE, GA, IL, KY, MD, ME, MI, MN, NC, NE, NJ, NY, OR, PA, TN, VA & WA,
14 years old & above in AL,
15 years old & above in OH,
16 years old & above in KS & SC,
18 years old & above in AZ, FL, IA, MO, MT, NV, SD, TX, UT & WY
If you're under 18, the age of minority in the state of Florida by law, you can access birth control if you can verify that you fall into one of the following categories:
If you're under 18, the age of minority in those states, by law, you can access birth control if you can verify that you fall into one of the following categories:
It’s easy! Your parent or legal guardian should send us an email to contact@twentyeighthealth.com providing:
How health plans show medications that are reimbursed by insurance vary, so if you're worried about your parents seeing your birth control on a statement, it's best to call your insurance first to ask. Click here for a great article to help you navigate talking to your insurance company.
If you would like to be absolutely sure that they won't see the charges through your insurance, you do have the option to pay out of pocket for your birth control. At Twentyeight Health, outer packaging is discrete and doesn't mention your medication or Twentyeight by name.
You can always buy condoms at a local convenience or grocery store without a prescription. Both internal and external condoms are a great option because they protect against STIs. Some local clinics or school campuses may even offer them for free!
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