Ok, so this is probably a pretty dumb question, but do you have to go to a gynecologist to get bc? Or can you get it from your family doctor? My family is pretty private, so my mom refuses to talk about it. FI and I are getting married in April and we definitely don't want kids for a few years. I'm in Canada if that makes any difference.

Here in California you can get BC from a family doctor, but they do require an exam. I chose to go to a gyno for the exam/pills because I wasn't comfortable with my primary care physician doing the exam. 

Yes, you can just go to your regular doctor and they'll give you a prescription. Mine gave me a 12 month prescription so I can go back to Shoppers Drugmart every 3 months to get another batch. Super easy xx

Ok, thanks for the info, ladies! @Canook, did you have to have an exam too?

I didn't, but I had one in May before I immigrated so he said I didn't need another one until next May when he does my full health check

It might a good idea just to get checked up on. If you're there already, it can't hurt.

I went to a women's clinic and a midwife gave me a Well-Woman exam and prescribed the pills.  I have to go back in about 2 months for an evaluation and to get another prescription.

I would definintely suggest getting an exam before getting BC pills. That way they can factor in everything just to make sure that you're able to get on BC that will work well for you :)

I've never had a doctor, NOT require an exam before they'll give you a Rx for BC.  And like all the girls mentioned, it doesnt hurt to have it done.