How to Prepare for a Video Visit About Birth Control Consultation

Audience: pediatric

A video visit for a birth control consultation is a helpful way to talk with a healthcare provider about your options for preventing pregnancy. Before your visit, it’s important to get ready so you can share your health history and ask questions. This guide explains what to expect, how to prepare, and when to seek urgent care. Birth control methods vary, and your provider will help you find the best choice based on your health, lifestyle, and preferences. Remember, telemedicine can handle many parts of birth control counseling, but some exams or tests may need an in-person visit. Being prepared helps you have a clear and useful conversation with your provider.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Heavy vaginal bleeding that soaks through a pad in an hour or less.
• Severe abdominal or pelvic pain that does not improve.
• Signs of infection such as fever over 38°C (100.4°F), chills, or foul-smelling vaginal discharge.

What telemedicine can do

• Discussing birth control options and answering questions.
• Reviewing medical history related to contraception.
• Prescribing many types of birth control pills, patches, or injections.
• Providing information on correct use and side effects.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Physical exams required for device insertion (e.g., IUD).
• Laboratory tests that require samples (e.g., blood tests, STI screening).
• Emergency care for severe side effects or complications.
• Procedures such as implant insertion or removal.

What to Expect During Your Video Visit

During your video visit, your healthcare provider will ask about your medical history, menstrual cycle, sexual activity, and any health concerns. They may discuss different birth control methods such as pills, patches, injections, implants, or devices. You can ask questions about how each method works, possible side effects, and how to use them correctly. The provider may also talk about sexually transmitted infection (STI) prevention and healthy sexual practices.

How to Prepare for the Video Visit

Before your appointment, find a quiet and private space with good internet connection. Have a list of your current medications, allergies, and any health conditions ready. Write down questions or concerns you want to discuss. If possible, have a calendar or notes about your menstrual cycle handy. Make sure your device’s camera and microphone work well. Being prepared helps the visit go smoothly and ensures you get the information you need.

Red Flags to Watch For

If you experience heavy vaginal bleeding, severe abdominal pain, signs of infection (like fever or unusual discharge), or allergic reactions after starting birth control, seek immediate medical care. These symptoms may require urgent evaluation beyond a video visit. If you feel unwell or have concerns that cannot wait, contact your healthcare provider or emergency services promptly.

What Telemedicine Can and Cannot Do

Telemedicine can often provide counseling about birth control options, answer questions, and help prescribe many contraceptives. However, it cannot perform physical exams, insert certain devices like intrauterine devices (IUDs), or conduct some laboratory tests. For these, an in-person visit may be necessary. Your provider will guide you if further care is needed.

After Your Video Visit

Follow the instructions your provider gives about starting or continuing birth control. If you receive a prescription, check how to get your medication safely. Monitor for any side effects and keep track of your cycle. Schedule follow-up appointments if recommended. Always reach out to your healthcare provider if you have new symptoms or questions.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a private, quiet space with good internet connection.
• Test your device’s camera and microphone before the visit.
• Have a list of current medications, allergies, and health conditions ready.
• Write down questions or concerns about birth control.
• Note the dates of your last menstrual periods if possible.
• Have your ID and any insurance information available if needed.

After your tele-visit

• Follow provider instructions for starting or continuing birth control.
• Fill prescriptions promptly and use medications as directed.
• Monitor for side effects or unusual symptoms.
• Keep track of your menstrual cycle and any changes.
• Schedule follow-up visits as recommended.
• Contact your provider if you experience red flag symptoms or have questions.

FAQs

Can I get birth control without a physical exam during a video visit?

Many types of birth control, such as pills, patches, or injections, can be prescribed after a video consultation without a physical exam. However, some methods like IUDs or implants require an in-person visit for placement.

What if I have side effects from birth control?

If you experience mild side effects, talk to your healthcare provider during a follow-up visit or call. For severe symptoms like heavy bleeding or severe pain, seek urgent medical care immediately.

How do I prepare for a video visit about birth control?

Prepare by finding a private space with good internet, having your health information ready, and writing down questions. Testing your device’s camera and microphone beforehand helps the visit go smoothly.

Can I discuss STI prevention during my birth control video visit?

Yes, your provider can discuss STI prevention methods such as condom use and testing options during your consultation.

What if I need lab tests or exams?

Your provider may recommend an in-person visit for lab tests or physical exams if needed. They will guide you on how to get these safely.

Sources

1. Birth Control Methods — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Contraception — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Birth Control: Choosing a Method — Mayo Clinic.
4. Telemedicine: What You Need to Know — National Library of Medicine.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical care. Telemedicine guidance does not replace in-person evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment by a qualified healthcare provider. If you have urgent symptoms or concerns, seek immediate medical attention.