Planned parenthood

Planned Parenthood is a nonprofit organization that provides reproductive health care in the United States and globally. It is a leading provider of sexual and reproductive health services, including abortion, birth control, cancer screenings, STI/STD testing and treatment, and counseling. Planned Parenthood also engages in advocacy efforts to protect reproductive rights and access to health care.

History

Planned Parenthood has its roots in the early 20th century birth control movement. It was founded in 1916 by Margaret Sanger, Ethel Byrne, and Fania Mindell as the first birth control clinic in the U.S. in Brooklyn, New York. The organization was initially called the American Birth Control League and was renamed Planned Parenthood Federation of America (PPFA) in 1942. Throughout its history, Planned Parenthood has faced legal and political challenges to its mission, including opposition to abortion and birth control.

Services

Planned Parenthood provides a wide range of health services, which include:

• Abortion services, both medical and surgical
• Birth control information and supplies
• Cancer screenings, including Pap tests, HPV testing, and breast exams
• STI/STD testing and treatment
• Pregnancy testing and pregnancy options counseling
• Sexual health education and outreach programs

Advocacy

Planned Parenthood is also known for its advocacy work in reproductive rights and health care access. The organization works to influence legislation, support reproductive health and rights policies, and oppose restrictions on abortion and birth control. Planned Parenthood's advocacy efforts extend to voter education and engagement campaigns.

Controversies

Planned Parenthood has been at the center of numerous controversies, primarily related to its provision of abortion services. Critics, including some political and religious groups, argue against the organization's use of federal funding and its role in providing abortions. Supporters defend Planned Parenthood's services as essential to women's health and reproductive freedom.

Funding

Planned Parenthood receives funding from a variety of sources, including government grants and contracts, private donations, and patient fees. The organization's use of federal funding is restricted by law to non-abortion services.

See Also

• Reproductive Rights
• Women's Health
• Abortion in the United States
• Margaret Sanger