In the US, many women see an OB-GYN (obstetrician-gynecologist), a doctor for women's reproductive health, pregnancy and birth. Your primary care doctor, a nurse practitioner, or a certified nurse-midwife can also do much of this care.
Many plans, including HMOs, let you see an in-network OB-GYN without a referral. Check with your plan.
Most plans cover these at no cost in network:
A yearly well-woman visit.
Cervical cancer screening (Pap test and HPV test) at recommended times.
Mammograms for breast cancer screening at recommended ages.
Screening for sexually transmitted infections, as recommended.
Counseling on birth control and pregnancy planning.
Most plans must cover at least one form of each FDA-approved type of birth control at no cost, with a prescription. Some religious employers have exceptions.
Options include the pill, patch, ring, shot, implant and IUD. Ask about each one's pros and cons.
Opill, a daily birth control pill, is sold without a prescription.
Emergency contraception (levonorgestrel, for example Plan B) is sold on the shelf without a prescription and without an age limit. It works best as soon as possible after sex.
Without insurance, community health centers and family planning clinics often offer low-cost birth control.
Take a home pregnancy test. They are sold in pharmacies and supermarkets.
Book a prenatal visit with an OB-GYN or midwife soon. Early care is important.
Ask about folic acid vitamins.
If you have no insurance, contact a community health center. Pregnancy may also open special enrollment or state programs. This differs by state.
Laws on abortion differ a lot between states. Your doctor or a local clinic can explain the rules where you live.
You can ask for a female doctor when you book.
You can ask for a chaperone (another staff member in the room) during an exam.
You can ask for an interpreter at no cost.
Your visit is confidential.
Waiting to see a doctor until late in pregnancy.
Assuming birth control always needs a doctor's visit.
Missing screenings because you had them "recently" at home. Bring the dates and results.