Planned Parenthood

Understanding Planned Parenthood: A Pillar of Reproductive Health

Is Planned Parenthood just another healthcare provider, or is it something more? Founded by Margaret Sanger in 1916, this American nonprofit organization has grown into a cornerstone for reproductive and sexual health services. With its roots in Brooklyn, New York, where the first birth control clinic was opened, PPFA (Planned Parenthood Federation of America) now operates over 600 health clinics across the United States and partners with organizations in 12 countries globally.

As a leading provider of reproductive health services, including abortions, Planned Parenthood contributes significantly to research and advocacy for reproductive rights. The organization has seen over two million patients in its 2023 Annual Report, performing a total of 9.13 million discrete services. But how did it all begin?

The Evolution of Planned Parenthood

In 1938, the Citizens Committee for Planned Parenthood was formed to spread birth control knowledge. The BCCRB merged with the American Birth Control League in 1939 to form the Birth Control Federation of America (BCFA), later renamed the Planned Parenthood Federation of America (PPFA) in 1942. Under D. Kenneth Rose’s leadership, PPFA expanded its programs and services through the 1940s and 1950s, adding affiliate organizations and family planning services.

During the 1950s, PPFA adjusted its programs to appeal to a more conservative populace while continuing as a reliable source of contraceptives. The Federation concentrated on strengthening ties with affiliates from 1942 to 1962, expanding public education programs, and improving medical and research work. By 1960, PPFA had provided family planning counseling in hundreds of communities.

Key Moments in Planned Parenthood’s History

The organization played a key role in landmark cases such as Roe v Wade (1973) and Planned Parenthood v Casey (1992). In 1961, PPFA merged with the World Population Emergency Campaign to become PPFA-World Population. Alan Frank Guttmacher led Planned Parenthood from 1962 until 1974, during which time the FDA approved the birth control pill and Planned Parenthood lobbied for government subsidies for reproductive health services.

Faye Wattleton became the first African American president of Planned Parenthood Federation of America in 1978, serving until 1992. During her term, Planned Parenthood grew to become the seventh largest charity in the country. From 1996 to 2006, Gloria Feldt led the organization, launching initiatives such as the Planned Parenthood Action Fund and a global partnership program.

Challenges and Controversies

Cecile Richards became president in 2006 and served until 2018. During her tenure, she was named one of Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in the World. Leana Wen took over as president in 2018 but was removed by the board in 2019. Alexis McGill Johnson became acting president.

Planned Parenthood has faced numerous challenges, including data breaches in 2020 and 2021, with hackers gaining access to patient information through branches in Los Angeles and Metropolitan Washington. The organization awards an annual Margaret Sanger Award to individuals who have made significant contributions to reproductive health and rights, starting in 1966.

Planned Parenthood has received federal funding since 1970 under Title X of the Family Planning Services and Population Research Act. However, some opponents have lobbied to reduce funding levels due to the Hyde Amendment restriction on abortion funding. Several states have enacted proposals to reduce or eliminate funding to Planned Parenthood, while federal legislation has been proposed to achieve the same goal.

Legal Battles and Advocacy

The group’s revenue for fiscal year 2014 was $1.3 billion, with non-government health services revenue accounting for $305 million. Planned Parenthood receives over a third of its money in government grants and contracts but has faced opposition from those who believe it should not receive federal funding.

Planned Parenthood is an advocate for reproductive rights, opposing restrictions on women’s reproductive health services such as parental consent laws and waiting periods before abortions. The organization supports comprehensive sex education and emergency contraception and opposes conscience clauses and abstinence-only education in public schools.

Conclusion

Planned Parenthood has been involved in several cases that reached the US Supreme Court, including Planned Parenthood v. Casey (1992), which established the current constitutional abortion standard. The organization’s role in reproductive health and rights is undeniable, but it faces ongoing challenges and controversies.