Gynecological Services

An annual exam is an integral part of a woman's reproductive healthcare. It is an opportunity to not only have a physical check-up, but also a chance to discuss health-related issues like nutrition and to learn about contraception and prevention of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). During this exam, a Pap smear is done to test for cervical cancer. Pap smears occasionally detect other infections; however, a Pap smear is not a definitive diagnosis. That's why screening for sexually transmitted infections is also an important part of an annual exam. Most STIs are treatable, but if undetected they can pose serious threats to health and future fertility. An annual gynecological exam consists of a complete medical history, blood pressure and weight check, a check for blood iron level, a pelvic exam, a Pap smear and breast exam. STI screenings are done by request. An appointment is required.

Birth Control

We offer complete instruction on all FDA-approved birth control methods, including condoms, diaphragms, birth control pills, the Evra Patch, NuvaRing, Depo-Provera injections, IUDs (intrauterine devices), cervical caps and fertility awareness methods. Referrals are available for tubal sterilization and vasectomy.

Hormonal contraceptives (birth control pills, the Evra Patch, NuvaRing and Depo-Provera) may be started without an exam. You will see a nurse practitioner who will review your medical history and prescribe the method you choose. You do not need an appointment. Unfortunately, federal restrictions do not allow this convenient option at the Downtown Clinic.

Emergency Contraception

Emergency contraception (formerly known as the "morning-after pill") is a special dose of commonly prescribed birth control pills that can help to prevent pregnancy when taken within 3 days of a birth control accident or unprotected sex. It may work by preventing ovulation, fertilization, or implantation but does not cause an abortion. Emergency contraception does not prevent HIV or other sexually transmitted infections. No appointment is necessary. You can get more information about emergency contraception in English or en español.

Pregnancy Testing

We provide pregnancy testing and options counseling in a private, supportive setting. Referrals to local providers are provided for prenatal care, adoption, and abortion, according to your individual wishes. No appointment is necessary.

Anonymous HIV Testing

Confidential or anonymous (no names are recorded) HIV testing, counseling, and referrals for both men and women are available. Some clinics offer an oral or urine test as well as the blood test. The test must be sent to a lab so results are not immediately available. An appointment is required at some clinics, so call ahead.

STI Testing

We offer tests and treatments for gonorrhea, chlamydia, herpes, and vaginal infections. We also treat genital warts caused by the Human Papilloma Virus. Urine tests are available for chlamydia and gonorrhea for people without symptoms. The urine test must be sent to a lab so results are not immediately available.

Colposcopy & Cryotherapy

Colposcopy (a special procedure to examine abnormal cervical cells) and cryotherapy (a method of treating abnormal cells on your cervix) are offered at the Downtown Clinic.

Medication Abortion

The North Austin Clinic offers early pregnancy terminations using mifepristone, the “abortion pill.” Here is a link to medication abortion which provides detailed information about how it works, number of visits, possible complications and aftercare.

Men's Services

Routine exams (including testicular and prostate cancer screenings) are available for men, as well as diagnosis and treatment for sexually transmitted infections. Vasectomy, a form of permanent sterilization, is available at the North Austin Clinic, one Friday a month. Two appointments are required: an initial consultation, followed by another appointment for the procedure. Clients must be at least 21 years of age.

Midlife Services

Midlife services for menopausal women include hormone replacement therapy, natural alternatives, an exam and counseling. An appointment is required.

All of our centers offer testing and treatment for urinary tract and vaginal infections, cholesterol screening, and anemia screening. Referrals for social services and other medical services are available.

Who will know about my visit?

All of our services are confidential. No one will be given information about your visit without your written permission. Parental consent or notification is not required, although we encourage teens to discuss matters with their parents.

Who will treat me?

When you visit a Planned Parenthood clinic for medical services, you'll be treated by a nurse practitioner. Nurse practitioners are registered nurses with advanced education and training so they can provide some of the services doctors usually deliver. Our medical director, a licensed physician, oversees the scope and quality of medical services that PPTCR provides.

How much will it cost?

Our health care services are very affordable. The South Austin and North Austin Clinics charge a fee for all services. Patients 17 years old or less qualify for a teen discount on birth control pills. The Downtown Clinic is subsidized by federal funds and has a sliding fee scale for all services based on federal poverty guidelines. To determine eligibility, persons 18 and over must bring evidence of their income—a recent pay stub or verification of unemployment compensation. Teens are not charged at the Downtown Clinic.

Payment for any assessed fee is due at time of visit. We accept MasterCard, Visa, Discover, cash, and personal checks for most services.Medicaid clients are always welcome at all of our clinics. Please bring your current Medicaid card.