Alcohol & Other Drugs: Testing & Metabolism

Q: Why hello there. I have really bad cramps and such when i have my periods and was thinking about taking the bcp to lessen the symptoms, but i dont want my mother to know b/c she will make me go to the doctor and get some pain medication thing which i dont want. So i was wondering if the pill could be tested for in blood or urine samples? Please tell me if it is so i can decide if i really want to take it. Thank you!

A: Birth control pills can help alleviate much of the pain from menstruation. If you decide to go on oral contraceptives, and are 16 years or older you have patient rights which include complete confidentiality--your doctor can't tell your mother. Also, no one is going to test your blood or urine for BCP's in a routine examination. If you decide you want to take it without her knowledge you can, but I would encourage you to discuss it with her instead. Tell her all the benefits of using the pill, upon research of course, to help her understand why this is a good option for you. She may be more understanding than you think! -Spot (July 16, 2003)