Frequently Asked Questions
Discover everything you need to know about Activate Teen Kits in our Frequently Asked Questions section. From appointment tips to understanding reproductive health, we’ve got your questions covered.
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What are all of my birth control options?igm.admin.activate2024-01-09T20:26:16+00:00
- The only 100% effective method of birth control is abstinence. If you’re sexually active, there are various birth control methods you can cover with your provider.
Where can I go to get birth control or an STI test?igm.admin.activate2024-01-18T14:35:16+00:00
- Community Action Corporation of South Texas (CACOST) provides reproductive health services, and the hospital staff are willing to confidentially discuss questions you have or provide these services to you without discussing them with your parents. If you are concerned about what your provider might tell your parent or guardian, ask your provider beforehand if they are willing to discuss sexual health with you and, if so, if they’ll keep it confidential.
I think I might be pregnant or have an STI. What should I do?igm.admin.activate2024-01-18T14:35:49+00:00
- If you think you may be pregnant or have an STI, make an appointment to see a doctor as soon as possible. You can refer to the resources tab to schedule an appointment at Community Action Corporation of South Texas (CACOST).
Can a doctor know during a pelvic exam if I have had sex?igm.admin.activate2024-01-09T20:24:52+00:00
- Most of the time, a doctor can’t tell if a girl has had sex just from a pelvic exam (and doctors don’t usually give teen girls pelvic exams unless there’s a sign of a problem). But you should let your doctor know if you’ve had sex anyway. Why? Having sex puts a person at risk for STIs as well as unplanned pregnancy. When you tell your provider you’ve had sex, he or she can look out for signs of infection. Treating STIs early is important not just for your health, but also for the health of your partner. An STI that’s not treated could cause scarring of the reproductive organs and might lead to infertility (inability to have a baby) in men and women.
How are mental disorders diagnosed in young people?igm.admin.activate2024-01-09T20:23:54+00:00
- A mental health provider will make the diagnosis. He or she will take a detailed family history, write down your developmental history, and watch current symptoms. Standardized testing may also be done. A skilled mental health provider will analyze all of the information. If certain diagnostic criteria are met, he or she will make a diagnosis. These are based on the young person’s age and reports from parents and other caregivers or teachers.
Which mental disorders are often seen in young people?igm.admin.activate2024-01-09T20:21:24+00:00
- Anxiety disorders. These are the most common mental health problems in young people. They include panic disorder and generalized anxiety disorder.
- ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder). ADHD symptoms include poor attention and focus. Young people with ADHD are easily distracted and act on impulse.
- Depression. This affects mood, energy, interests, sleep, appetite, and overall functioning. Symptoms are extreme and are seen most days of the week. They can greatly interfere with the ability to function at home or at school.
- Bipolar disorder. This illness causes extreme shifts in mood, energy, and functioning. Times of disruption switch off with periods of withdrawal and other depressive symptoms.
Do I need my parent or guardian’s permission to receive medical care?igm.admin.activate2024-01-16T21:42:00+00:00
- The legal age for agreeing or consenting to medical services in Illinois is 18 years old. However, if you are under 18 years old, you can receive the following medical care without your parent/guardian’s permission:
- Testing and related treatment for sexually transmitted infections. (STIs)
- Medical services required for birth control, pregnancy, or family planning (except sterilization/getting tubes tied or vasectomy.)
- Services needed for outpatient care, treatment, or rehabilitation for substance abuse.
- Services needed for outpatient care, treatment, or rehabilitation for mental health.
- If you are pregnant, medical or surgical treatment for you or the child if related to the delivery of the child. After delivery, the law considers the mother an adult for consenting to medical or surgical treatment for her child.
Can my parents/guardian access my medical records?igm.admin.activate2024-01-16T21:42:23+00:00
- Parents can access all medical records except in the following situations:
- Title X Family Planning Services (birth control.)
- Substance abuse treatment.
- If releasing the record would cause harm to you or another person.
Can I get an abortion without my parent/guardian’s permission?igm.admin.activate2024-01-09T20:23:34+00:00
- In Illinois, the law allows minors (under 18 years) to give consent/agree to an abortion without their parent/guardian’s permission.
If you have specific questions for your provider, this is the time to write them on your appointment guide card.
