Dear sick & tired,

It's possible to have a vaginal infection without having had sex. Whatever's causing your symptoms, it's very important for you to get diagnosed and treated as soon as possible -- especially because you're so uncomfortable. Talking with your parents about your current health concern, not to mention future ones, can be really difficult, but it's possible to do so and still keep your privacy.

Considering your family and cultural values, think about what communication approach would be easiest for you, keeping in mind that it's often, if not always, hard for many of us to talk about health concerns when we think or know they're related to sex and sex organs. Maybe you can be direct with your parents, letting them know that you're sure you have a vaginal infection and that you need to see a provider right away to get treated. If that's too bold an approach for you, how about, "Mom, something is wrong down there. I don't know why, but I'm really uncomfortable, and I need to see a doctor right away to take care of it." Or you can say, "I've been having a lot of (vaginal) itching. It's not getting better so I want to see a doctor as soon as possible." Your parents might be more understanding than you think, as they may very well have had past experiences just like yours.

If the parent route isn't a road you'll take, you might try talking with a teacher, school nurse, an aunt, a friend's parent, a neighbor, or someone else with whom you feel close. You can also go to a local Planned Parenthood clinic, or your area's Health Department, for low-cost health care. The national Planned Parenthood phone number is 800.230.PLAN (-7526), or check out the Planned Parenthood web site for local clinic listings. Some of these resources/organizations also may be able to talk with you about confidentiality and insurance issues related to primary care visits and lab tests.

Whomever you talk to, it's vital to talk with someone -- just think about how good it will feel to feel better. Alice will be thinking of you.

Alice

P.S.: Since you'll be at the provider's office, this is the perfect opportunity to talk with her/him about your safer sex and contraceptive options and choices, as well as how to talk with your parents about these kinds of things now and in the future.

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