In defense of Planned Parenthood

In response to a recent article condemning Planned Parenthood once again, I'm writing this letter in order to show that some community members do support them. No one at Planned Parenthood promotes or encourages casual sex - they simply live in the real world. The simple act of making contraception and factual information unavailable does not stop teenagers and young adults from engaging in sexual activity. Many services are available at Planned Parenthood that have nothing to do with supporting sexual activity outside of marriage. Gynecological services for cervical health screening, prenatal care, breast health, and testicular health matters are available to all individuals regardless of how much they can pay.

And it may come as a surprise to someone who has never inquired about Planned Parenthood that they truly promote making safe decisions, with the first suggestion being abstinence. For those individuals who choose to have sex, Planned Parenthood serves as a place to get factual information about protecting oneself physically and emotionally. Misinformation about sexual activity is what leads to unplanned pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections, especially when you don't have factual information about the human body, or you feel guilty about "planning" to have sex. Simply denying information, or blocking access to something, does not stop people from engaging in it - look at our history regarding alcohol, cigarettes, guns and sex. If I could live in a fantasy world where everyone did as I believed was best, no teenager would have sex, young adults would only engage in sex within a committed marriage, and every pregnancy would be wanted and welcomed. But I choose to reside in the real world, and I will continue to support and encourage the thought that education is the answer. Sexuality is part of human nature, and it isn't always about sex.

Arwen Lynch

Naperville