Is It Possible to Decline Weighing During a Check-Up?
Hi there! I’m a 14-year-old female, standing at 5 feet 2 inches and weighing approximately between 190 and 200 pounds. I have a wellness check scheduled for Tuesday and I'm curious about whether my weight has to be recorded. Is it within my rights to say no to being weighed?
Answers (1)
7/25/2025, 12:30:57 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's completely understandable to feel apprehensive about having your weight recorded during a check-up, especially at a young age. You do have the right to decline being weighed, but it's important to consider the reasons why weight is often measured during these visits.
Weight can provide valuable information about your overall health, including the effects of growth, nutrition, and physical activity. However, you also have the autonomy to decide what you feel comfortable with regarding your body and health care.
Here’s a breakdown of what you can do:
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Communicate Your Feelings:
- Speak openly with your healthcare provider about your concerns regarding weighing. You can explain how you feel about it and why you’d prefer not to be weighed. This conversation can help establish a supportive and understanding environment.
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Understand the Purpose:
- Weighing is often done to monitor growth and health trends. If you are comfortable, consider discussing how you and your provider can focus on other aspects of wellness without prioritizing weight.
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Make an Informed Decision:
- If you choose to decline being weighed, it’s still a good idea to have a conversation about your overall health, including nutrition and physical activity. This helps ensure you get the most out of your check-up.
Next Steps:
- Before your appointment, write down your feelings and any questions you have about weight and health.
- Practice what you want to say to your provider to help ease any anxiety you might feel.
- Remember that your health comes first, and it’s okay to advocate for what makes you comfortable.
Ultimately, you should feel empowered to take charge of your health discussions. Let me know if you have any other questions or additional concerns!
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