Birth control consultation

Your MinuteClinic provider can discuss your medical history and the various birth control options. They can prepare a personalized birth control plan and help you to choose the method that’s best for you. They can also prescribe or give you injections if needed.

1. You may have to answer a few questions to help us prepare for your visit prior to scheduling your appointment.
   
2. Check-in varies depending on how you scheduled your appointment.

   
   If you made your appointment online:

   Check in using the email or text message we sent to confirm your appointment. If you prefer to check in using the electronic kiosk, make sure you have your confirmation code.
   
   If you made your appointment in the clinic:

   Sign in at the electronic kiosk.
   
   If you made a MinuteClinic Virtual Care^® appointment:
   To join your virtual visit, use the link in the email or text message we sent you to confirm your appointment. Please join 15 minutes before your scheduled visit time. You will need your date of birth and zip code to join the visit.
   
   
3. When it's time for your appointment, a provider will call your name.
   
4. Your provider will conduct a thorough examination based on your reason for visit, presenting symptoms and health history. Charges will be based on examination and services provided during the visit.
   
5. At the end of your visit, you are provided with a visit summary, receipt and educational material about your diagnosis. At your request, we can send your primary care provider information about your visit.

The available birth control methods at MinuteClinic^® include pills, condoms, injections, vaginal rings and patches. If you choose the injection mode of birth control, your MinuteClinic provider can get you started on this method during your birth control care visit.

If you choose an implant, IUD or tubal ligation, talk to your primary care provider or OB/GYN. If you do not have a primary care provider, MinuteClinic can supply a resource list of doctors in your area.

Forms of birth control available at MinuteClinic include:

• Birth Control Injections: The birth control Depo-Provera^® is a hormonal injection that is convenient and effective for three months at a time. The active ingredient in this shot is the hormone progestin. The birth control injection works similarly to the birth control pill. It prevents ovulation and increases the mucus buildup around the opening of the cervix. It’s most effective when given precisely on schedule.
• Birth Control Pills: Often referred to as “the pill,” birth control pills are a form of hormonal contraception. The use of birth control pills to prevent pregnancy is a mode favored by many women. The pill can also be taken to help reduce heavy menstrual periods, treat the symptoms of acne and ease specific reproductive system issues. The pill is most effective when taken at the same time every day.

Regular cervical screenings are essential to maintaining women's reproductive health. Although a pap smear is not a requirement to start on birth control, it’s important to get a cervical health screening per the recommended schedule.