Do You Need a Parent to Go to the OBGYN?
An unplanned teenage pregnancy can spark many different thoughts and concerns. Often, teens want to keep their pregnancy secret or struggle with how to tell their parents.
The good news is that many states allow teens to access reproductive healthcare confidentially, but there are some things you may want to consider before trying to keep your pregnancy a secret. Knowing your rights and understanding the options available to you is important for getting the care you deserve.
You never have to go through an unplanned pregnancy alone. American Adoptions is here to help. Call 1-800-ADOPTION or fill out our online form to speak with a professional from our agency. They will provide the guidance and support you need as you navigate how to go to the OBGYN without your parents knowing.
Do You Need a Parent to Go to the OBGYN?
While the majority of states have some sort of law in place for your ability to receive prenatal care, Indiana does not currently have any specific restrictions or policy on you being able to consent to prenatal care.
Essentially, this means you are able to go to the OBGYN without a parent.
Do doctors have to tell parents if a minor is pregnant?
The short answer is no, but you will want to ask the clinic about their specific privacy policies. While most follow the same practices, with no specific Indiana laws centered on this topic, clinics may have their own practices that could vary.
How to Find Out if OBGYN Accepts My Parent's Insurance?
There is no fool-proof answer to this question, as it depends on the specific insurance your parents have. If you are going to go this route to use at your healthcare provider, it may be best to have a conversation with your parents about your pregnancy.
Insurance providers typically provide an explanation of benefits and detailed information when a claim is filed or processed. This means your parents will likely know if you have visited the OBGYN and used their insurance.
Unplanned Teenage Pregnancy Options
The fact that you are aware of your need to visit an OBGYN if you are pregnant or concerned you may be pregnant is a step in the right direction. It is not worth jeopardizing the health of you or your baby trying to keep your pregnancy secret and not receiving the care that you need.
When it comes to your pregnancy, know that you have options. Those options include:
Adoption
Adoption provides a brighter future for everyone involved. When you choose adoption, you are providing a life of love and opportunity for your child. Adoption gives you the opportunity to focus on your future.
With over 30 years of experience, American Adoptions of Indiana fully understands the life-changing decision you are making when you choose adoption. We are here to guide and support you every step of the way.
Adoption isn't the right decision for everyone, but it may be the right one for you and your baby. Anytime you want to learn more about the benefits of adoption or the services we provide, you can speak with a specialist from our agency by calling 1-800-ADOPTION or filling out our online form.
Abortion
Although laws are constantly changing or being amended, at the time this guide was written in 2024, abortion is considered illegal in Indiana. There are certain situations where it is allowed, which include:
- To save the pregnant person's life or to prevent a serious risk to their physical health
- If there is a lethal fetal anomaly up to 20 weeks post-fertilization
- In cases of rape or incest, up to 10 weeks
As mentioned, laws change fairly often, so it would be in your best interest to talk to a professional about the legalities of abortion as an option for your unplanned teenage pregnancy.
Parenting
This is always an option for you. While it may seem scary at the time, this could also be the best option for you and your baby. There are many things to consider before deciding on your unplanned teenage pregnancy options, including:
- The cost of raising a baby
- Do you want to be a parent
- Will you have the time/support needed to raise a child
- How will this impact your future
- Is the father ready to parent?
These are just a few of the questions you should discuss when you speak with a counselor or professional. They will help provide insight you may not have considered and give you helpful information and guidance about what your future may look like if you choose to parent.
Contact American Adoptions of Indiana
You should never have to experience an unplanned pregnancy alone – American Adoptions is here to ensure you never have to.
Whether you are determining your next steps, wondering, "do you need a parent to go to the OBGYN, or coming to terms with your unplanned pregnancy, no matter where you are at in the decision making process, professionals are here to help guide your toward the help you need, when you need it most.
Call 1-800-ADOPTION or fill out our online form to speak with a specialist today.
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