When some hear the phrase "Planned Parenthood" the first thing that comes to mind is -- abortion. This occurrence would explain the large amount of criticism that the organization has received in the past. However, these criticisms come from ignorance and lack of research. Although this information is available to anyone with wireless connection, it seems as if some (i.e. the recent shooter of Colorado Planned Parenthood) simply refuse to visit the Planned Parenthood website. That is why I took it upon myself to provide a list of other services that Planned Parenthood provides that are not abortion.
1. STI/STD Testing
In its annual report, in 2013, Planned Parenthood disclosed that they did 4.5 million tests and screenings for sexually transmitted infections. This service is also perfect for teenagers under the age of 18, because parental permission is not needed.
2. Pap Tests
A Pap test checks for abnormal cell changes in the lower part of the uterus. It is recommended that all women between the ages 21 and 65 include these tests as part of their health routine. That's also if you are not sexually active. Planned Parenthood, with services such as Family Planning Benefit Program, is a good option for women who find themselves in a tight financial situation.
3. Breast Examinations
According to breastcancer.org, 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer in her lifetime. Detecting the cancer is crucial to increasing chances of survival. Not only does Planned Parenthood provide these examinations, they "teach patients about breast care, connect patients to resources to help them get vital biopsies, ultrasounds, and mammograms, and follow up to make sure patients are cared for with the attention they need and deserve."
4. Pregnancy Prevention and Birth Control
To avoid abortion, it is crucial to have your hands on birth control. The previously mentioned Family Planning Benefit Program allows low-income individuals to obtain birth control pills and other mediums of contraception. These mediums include birth control patches, female condoms, male condoms, tubal sterilization, etc.
5. Sexual Education
There seems to be a trend of unsatisfactory sex ed in most American schools. The famous joke from "Mean Girls" -- "Don't have sex, or you will get pregnant... and die! Now take some rubbers" actually has a lot of sad truth behind it. About 820,000 teens become pregnant each year. Planned Parenthood provides teens and adults alike with information not only on pregnancy prevention but also STI/STDs, cancer examinations, and birth control.
Buzzfeed recently exhibited how much men really know about birth control --
After that video, do you still think that Planned Parenthood educating people on birth control (along with countless other services) deserves to be shut down?
