No.  The U. S. Supreme Court has ruled that the right to privacy includes an interest in making certain kinds of important decisions – including those related to birth control and whether or not to have a baby.

A minor (a person under the age of 18) does not need to notify parents or have permission to get a prescription for birth control.  When you visit a medical clinic, you have a right to keep your medical records private and confidential, and your parents will not be informed of your visit.  However, if a doctor suspects a minor patient is a victim of abuse or neglect, the doctor is legally required to report these findings to the police.  Some insurance companies may also have differing confidentiality rules.  If you are covered by your parent’s health insurance, be sure to ask the clinic and your insurance company about their specific parental notification and nondisclosure policies.

There are a variety of methods of birth control (for example, the Pill, NuvaRing, or an Intrauterine Device (IUD)). A medical professional can help you decide the best type of birth control for you. Using a barrier method (like a condom) and a back up form of birth control can help prevent unplanned pregnancies and protect your health.  There are no age restrictions on the sale of condoms in Alaska. Condoms are available at grocery stores, from your local medical clinic, school nurse, or even online.  Some types of birth control are also approved by the FDA to serve as emergency contraception (IUD, the Pill).  You may want to consult your doctor about this option.

Yes.  Emergency contraceptives can help prevent pregnancy up to five days (120 hours) after unprotected sex. They work better the sooner they are taken. You may receive emergency contraceptives from a pharmacy without a prescription (be sure to bring an ID).  Again, if you go to a health center seeking emergency contraceptives, your medical records will be private and confidential, and your parents will not be informed of your visit.  However, if you purchase the prescription with your parent’s insurance, be sure to ask about the insurance company’s privacy policy.