History Of Planned Parenthood

In 1916, Margaret Sanger opened the first women's health clinic in America. Nine days later, she was arrested for it. There has always been a continuous debate sparked by stigmas and misconceptions about reproductive clinics. In present day, this debate is currently around governmental funding to Planned Parenthood. Planned Parenthood is a nonprofit clinic that does research and gives advice and services on contraception, family planning, reproductive problems, and cancer screenings. Stigmas and misconceptions surrounding the clinic are results of religious beliefs and lack of understanding about the true services of Planned Parenthood. Consequently, many political leaders are calling for a halt on the funding due to the belief that the government

"After her release, Sanger reopened the clinic and was arrested again" (Oxford, 2011). The historical fact of Margaret Sanger's arrest supports the argument that there has always been opposition against reproductive clinics. Despite the backlash, Sanger continued her work as a pioneer in the field of women's rights and fought to continue her clinics. It broadened into the Planned Parenthood as it is known as today. “As of October 2016, Planned Parenthood turned 100 years strong” (Planned Parenthood, 2016). Planned Parenthood’s 100th celebration proves they are a well established institution serving a need that is not being addressed elsewhere. "Planned Parenthood’s affiliated clinics provided 10.6 million services for 2.7 million clients in 2013" (Ye Hee Lee, 2015). These statistics only support that Planned Parenthood provides several services to a large population dependent upon them. Therefore, it cannot simply be defunded and dismantled, as doing so would leave millions without access to affordable healthcare

“Planned Parenthood receives $391.8 million from private donations and $528.4 million from the government” (Kurtzleben, 2015). Many are unaware of the fact that less than half of the total funding of Planned Parenthood comes from private donors. For this reason, removing federal funds would not shut down the institution, but would deliver a harsh blow. “34% of governmental funding towards Planned Parenthood is spent on contraceptives, STI’s, and STD’s” (By The Numbers, 2017). While the majority of the opposition towards Planned Parenthood is against abortions, they are unaware where a majority of the money goes. “3% of the governmental money goes towards the costs of abortions” (By The Numbers, 2017). This statistic is additional support that the whole debate over 3% of the total money will unnecessarily deny people from having access to other essential services. Many women with unplanned pregnancies or fetal health complications are unable to afford private abortions and turn towards to Planned Parenthood for