You're right, it's a great idea to see a gynecologist if you are sexually active, but I can see how it might be difficult to let your mom know that you are sexually active.

Most doctors live by a code of ethics that dictates respecting patient privacy. If you are under 18, doctors must, understandably, reserve the right to call your parent or guardian in case of an emergency. But don't let that stop you. The most important thing is to take care of yourself and make decisions you feel good about--using contraception and having safer sex. It sounds like you really want to be responsible about sex. There are probably local resources nearby that provide free or low-cost gynecological care. All of Planned Parenthood health centers, for example, provide health services to teens regardless of their financial or family circumstances. Best of all, what you tell the clinician at a Planned Parenthood center is kept confidential. You can even request that no calls be made to your home--you check back for test results yourself. Call 1-800-230-PLAN to find a clinic near you.

In the event that there is no Planned Parenthood clinic nearby, there may be other local clinics that specialize in "women's health services". Take a look in the phone book and call ahead for the policies on payment and confidentiality.