The requirement for a pelvic exam before receiving a birth control prescription depends on the type of birth control individuals are interested in. For many birth control types, a pelvic exam is not immediately necessary before the prescription. However, certain methods, like the IUD, require a pelvic exam to ensure correct placement and to find appropriate measurements for devices like cervical caps and diaphragms. While not always mandatory for a prescription, pelvic exams are important for maintaining reproductive health and can inform decisions regarding birth control. These exams can also be recommended if there are symptoms like pelvic pain or vaginal discharge. A pelvic exam includes a visual and physical inspection of the reproductive organs, potentially coupled with a Pap test, to screen for unusual changes or diagnose health conditions.