• Can I get an abortion without my parent/guardian’s permission?

  • In Illinois, the law allows minors (under 18 years) to give consent/agree to an abortion without their parent/guardian’s permission.
• Can a doctor know during a pelvic exam if I have had sex?

  • 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.
• I think I might be pregnant or have an STI. What should I do?

  • 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).
• Where can I go to get birth control or an STI test?

  • 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.
• What are all of my birth control options?

  • 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.