TEEN PREGNANCY PREVENTION
The Will County Health Department is committed to help reduce the rates of teen pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections and existing health disparities. Please see the resources listed below.
QUICK LINKS – Teen Resources | Youth Rights | Free Condoms | Sexual Health
Teen Resources Guide and Pro Provider Referral Guide Development
In an effort to educate and engage the community, Will County Health Department community health educators have compiled a list of resources on their website for teens, parents, and community members. Teen resources include: information on where to access teen-friendly health services, including contraceptives and condoms, in the Joliet area as well as all of Will County, and information on healthcare rights of youth in Illinois.
If you are a teen seeking these services, check out the teen resource guide below.
Teen Resources Guide
The Teen Resources Guide provides information and resources on Illinois minor confidentiality and consent laws, birth control services, health insurance enrollment, pregnancy services, reproductive health services, sexually transmitted disease services, social support services, violence prevention services, hotlines and online resources.
The Teen Pocket Guide
As a teen, going to the doctor for sexual health care- like birth control or STD testing- can be uncomfortable. For you to receive the best care possible, it’s important to be open and honest when discussing your behaviors and concerns. See our convenient, easy-to-carry guide for tips on how to prepare for a sexual health care visit.
Healthcare Rights of Youth in Illinois
According to Illinois law, teens ages 12 and older can access sexual health services without parental consent. This includes testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV, as well as access to contraceptives (birth control). For more information on healthcare rights of youth in Illinois, see the flyer below, created by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU).
ACLU – Illinois Minor Consent Laws Guide
The Illinois Caucus for Adolescent Health has been advocating for adolescent health issues, including teen pregnancy prevention for over three decades. For more information on ICAH and the programs they offer, visit their website at www.icah.org.
Free Condoms
The Will County Health Department has free condoms available at our community health center in Joliet. See the link below for hours and location!
Teen Sexual Health Services at Will County Community Health Center
The Will County Community Health Center is offers family planning services to teens (ages 12-21). These services include STI testing and treatment, HIV testing, birth control, emergency contraceptives, and condoms.
The services are confidential and low-cost for teens.
For more information, view the Teen Services brochure
