Lots of things can cause burning and itching "down there." Your symptoms may be the result of a sexually transmitted disease (STD), but there could be other causes too: Yeast infections and urinary tract infections are fairly common - and they're not always caused by sex. Girls who haven't had sex get them too.

Tell your mom that you've noticed some burning and itching when you pee, and you think you need to see a doctor. Doctors are encouraging teens around your age to start learning what's involved in handling their own medical care. This helps people make a gradual transition from parent-directed care and helps them to manage things themselves when the time comes. So ask your mom if you can call to set up the appointment. When you do, tell the receptionist or nurse that you'd like to spend some time alone with the doctor, without a parent in the room.

Even if your mom makes the appointment, you can still ask your doctor if you can talk with him or her privately. This will give you a chance to talk about topics like safe sex and avoiding STDs.

With your symptoms, it's important to see a doctor so you can get the right treatment. If you can't see your own doctor, you can go to a health clinic like Planned Parenthood. No matter where you go for treatment, be open and honest about your concerns. The only way a doctor can help you is if he or she knows what's going on.

For more information from TeensHealth.org on talking to doctors about sensitive health information, click here

Rating Received: