For an examination and for testing (HIV, STD, Pregnancy),   No, We are a walk in clinic.

Condoms, spermicide, vaginal film and informational brochures are available at our clinic window ANYTIME during regular clinic hours. We can also answer basic questions from teens by telephone or by e-mail , although in-person counseling is often a better option. We also provide exams to both males and females for sexually transmitted diseases (STD's).

No appointments necessary; we operate on a walk-in basis. If you have an urgent need for an appointment, you can call during regular office hours, which are:

Immunizations on Tuesdays, 1-4 Teen Clinic, Wednesday, 1-6,
and HIV testing, Thursdays, 1-4

Nevada County Citizens for Choice phone number is: (530) 274 - 3331 or (800)714-8151

In California, parental consent or notification is NOT required for birth control, pregnancy tests, prenatal care or sexually transmitted disease testing and treatment. Laws vary from state to state, however, so check with your local Planned Parenthood or City/County Health Department.

(A quick note: When you reach voting age, you can ensure that future teens have this same access to information and medical care by electing politicians who will support access for teens.)

By the way, you may be surprised at your parent's response if you do talk with them, although it certainly varies from one family to the next. They may be more supportive than you expect.

A special word about confidentiality...

Most teens raised in a close, intimate family atmosphere want to share their thoughts and feelings with at least one of their parents, and don't have too much trouble talking about sex. Others may not be so comfortable and may even worry that someone will tell their parents. Either way, remember that your visit to the Teen Clinic is PRIVATE and CONFIDENTIAL. A strict rule of confidence between any patient and her/his clinician guides our clinic. Medical records are not open to the public. Our clinic staff will not share your health care information with anyone without your permission.

We don't want to separate teens from their parents. Quite the contrary. But we are here to help you with whatever you are facing. You are not required to tell an adult or parent if you do not wish to do so.

One other note about confidentiality... HIV/AIDS tests are offered in either of two manners, at YOUR CHOICE. One is called "CONFIDENTIAL" testing, where the test results do have your name on them, but cannot be released or discussed with anyone but you. The other is called "ANONYMOUS" testing, where you are assigned a coded number and identified only by that number. Either way, results are ONLY given IN-PERSON (not on the phone) and with either proper I.D. or code. The choice is yours.

We do a lot of first pelvic exams at the Teen Clinic, since most teens who come here are females between the ages of 15 and 18. It's normal to feel a little nervous. When you have the facts and a clinic staff who understand - like we do, you'll be fine.

And speaking of facts, here's what a pelvic exam is. It is an examination of a woman's reproductive organs. The clinician will check the labia, and internally, the vagina, uterus and ovaries to make sure you are in good health. She will explain the exam and help you relax, and you'll see it's not that big of a deal.

Who gets a pelvic exam at the Teen Clinic?    Not everybody. You don't need a pelvic exam just to get information or to pick up foam and condoms, for example. But if a young woman wants birth control, she must have a pelvic exam. This is also when the clinician does a simple test for cervical cancer (the Pap test), and she can check for sexually transmitted infections.

A yearly exam is really an important part of an adult woman's health care. Think of your first exam as a good beginning towards take care of yourself for all of your life. And congratulations from us in advance for taking that step!

Also, we provide examinations for both males and females for sexually transmitted diseases (STD's). If you want to know more about the actual STD's exam, click here.

Before your exam, don't douche or have sexual intercourse for 24 hours. When you arrive at the clinic, check in first with the first floor receptionist (for security reasons, you and anyone with you must show a picture ID). She will send you to the second floor to sign in and start your paperwork. You will be interviewed by a staff member and have your exam with one of our clinicians.

Do males use the Teen Clinic also?    YES, we do see teen males at the clinic, mostly in testing for sexually transmitted diseases (STD's). Males are welcome in the clinic during regular hours for condoms, film, spermicide, or for information on protection, they do not need an appointment for any kind of exam or testing. Males also can accompany their female partners.

Depending on your individual needs, you may or may not be asked to return right away for a second visit. You are encouraged to bring a friend who can wait for you in our reception area and provide you support. It is not unusual for two or more teens to get close time slots and come together.

At the Teen Clinic you can ask questions and talk things over with one of our staff members. We are here to help you get accurate, truthful medical information so YOU can make healthy, informed decisions.