Have you been thinking about visiting a Family Planning clinic?

Great! We know people have lots of questions about how we work, and might have a few worries too, so let us answer a few of the most common questions we hear from you.

1. How old do I need to be to visit a Family Planning clinic? Do I need permission from my parents?

Anyone, of any age, can visit Family Planning. We see people young and old at our clinics!

You don’t need your parents’ consent to make an appointment and you can buy condoms or be prescribed the pill or other contraception at any age.

We think it’s a good idea to talk with your parents or trusted adult about your choices, but it’s entirely up to you.

2. Will you tell my parents that I’ve had an appointment at Family Planning?

No, everything you tell us is confidential and we’ll never contact your parents (unless you want us to). Your home address and phone number won’t be contacted unless you give your permission.

We have a confidentiality statement for people under 16 which says that we don’t share your information with anyone, unless there is a risk that someone could harm you, you could harm someone else, or you could harm yourself. If we need to share your information with someone who is able to help you, we will always tell you.

3. Will you tell my family doctor that I’ve had an appointment at Family Planning?

Family Planning won’t tell your family doctor (your GP) that you’ve had an appointment. But if you like, we can send information about the appointment to your family doctor to update your medical notes.

4. What if I can’t afford to go to Family Planning?

If you’re under 22 and a New Zealand resident, your visit to Family Planning is free. If you’re over 22, it costs $5 with a Community Services card, or $27 without.

There might be some other costs, like a $5 prescription.

5. How will I get my results?

We will text them to you or call you, whichever you prefer.

6. Do I always have to go into a clinic for contraception?

No, there are ways to get contraception by phone. After two visits to a clinic for the pill, you can get your prescription over the phone, every alternate time. We’ll send your prescription to a pharmacy of your choice. You can also get a prescription for up to 144 condoms over the phone too.

You can also ask your school if there is a Family Planning nurse that visits. They can supply you contraception on their next visit.

7. Do I have to make an appointment?

It’s best to make an appointment – you can do it online here, or call us.

We do have drop-in clinics, where you can be seen without an appointment. Ring your local clinic or check out their page on our website to find out when these drop-in times are. Waiting times do vary, so if time is an issue, we’d recommend you make an appointment.

8. What if I can’t make it to my appointment?

Just call us ahead of time to cancel your appointment and to make a new time.