What to Expect During a Family Planning Appointment

Family planning is a type of health care appointment designed to help patients explore options for delaying or pursuing pregnancy. These gynecological visits also cover reproductive health and may encompass screenings or exams. Here’s how you can prepare before your first time.

When you make your appointment, let the receptionist know the reason for your visit. You may wish to discuss birth control options, for example, or be due for a cervical cancer screening if you’re a woman who is 21 or older. You may be asked to provide some basic information on the phone, such as your name, age, insurance information, and the best way to reach you.

When you arrive, may need to provide some further information. For example, you may be asked to give details about your personal and family health history, any known allergies, current medications, and your preferred pharmacy. 

To develop baseline measurements of your health, a nurse will take your vitals, including your blood pressure and temperature. You may also have your height and weight taken and be asked to provide a urine sample.

If you’re under the age of 21, your first gynecologist’s visit may encompass a conversation about birth control methods if you’re sexually active or planning to be. Your doctor may also recommend screenings for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and a pelvic exam if needed. If you’re over the age of 21, you’ll also receive screenings, including a breast exam and Pap smear.

Patients who are interested in becoming pregnant can also use family planning visits to receive preconception counseling. For example, you may have questions about any lifestyle changes you should make before trying to conceive, such as switching or stopping certain medications. Family planning counseling may also involve conversations about how and when to stop your current birth control method.