We know that making decisions about your health can feel overwhelming, but it’s important to know that you have the right to access care—privately and safely. Whether you need help with reproductive health, STI testing, or pregnancy care, this page will walk you through your rights to confidential services.

What is Confidentiality?

Confidentiality means your healthcare information stays private. When you talk to a doctor or nurse about your health, they cannot tell your parents or guardians without your permission—unless there’s a safety concern (like abuse or harm).

Do I need my parent or guardian’s permission?

In Pennsylvania, you do not need your parents’ permission for many kinds of health services:

If you are pregnant or have ever been pregnant, you can also make decisions about your health without needing a parent’s permission. Some options include:

• Adoption: If you decide to place your baby for adoption, you can make that decision on your own.
• Medical care for your child: If you have a child, you can make decisions about their healthcare, too.
• Abortion services: Parental consent is required for abortion services in Pennsylvania, though some exceptions may apply.

When Privacy Cannot Be Kept

Your safety is our top priority. There are some situations where a healthcare provider must break confidentiality to keep you or others safe. For example:

• If there’s a serious threat to your safety or the safety of someone else
• If they believe you are being physically or sexually abused

MFHS is here to help.

MFHS offers free reproductive services to anyone under 18, no insurance required. If you have any questions or need more information, call our care navigator at (570) 273-1288—we’re here to support you, no matter what.

We offer reproductive health services such as STD screening and treatment, birth control, pregnancy tests, and emergency contraception for FREE. Schedule an appointment at any of our Reproductive Health Services locations.

Find a Reproductive Health Services location near you