Planned Parenthood provides a range of healthcare services, including surgical procedures. While widely recognized for reproductive health, the organization offers broader care. Its clinics are staffed by licensed medical professionals.
Surgical Procedures Performed
Planned Parenthood health centers perform various surgical procedures, with a primary focus on reproductive health. These include surgical abortion procedures like vacuum aspiration, often called suction abortion, which uses gentle suction to empty the uterus. This method is commonly used up to approximately 14-16 weeks after a person’s last period. Dilation and Evacuation (D&E) is another surgical abortion method, using both suction and medical tools to empty the uterus, typically performed after 16 weeks. Both vacuum aspiration and D&E are considered safe and effective methods for ending a pregnancy.
Beyond abortion services, Planned Parenthood performs other minor surgical procedures. One such procedure is the Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure (LEEP), which removes abnormal cells from the cervix that, if left untreated, could develop into cervical cancer. During a LEEP, a small electrical wire loop precisely removes the abnormal tissue, and the area is then sealed to prevent bleeding. This procedure is typically performed after abnormal cells are detected through a Pap test, colposcopy, or biopsy. These surgical services are delivered by trained medical professionals adhering to established safety protocols.
Other Reproductive and Sexual Health Services
Planned Parenthood offers an extensive array of non-surgical reproductive and sexual health services, encompassing contraception, cancer screenings, and gender-affirming care. Patients can access various birth control methods, including pills, patches, vaginal rings, implants, shots, and intrauterine devices (IUDs). Staff provide information and support to help individuals choose the most suitable contraception option.
The organization provides comprehensive testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections (STIs). These services are crucial because many STIs do not present with symptoms, making regular testing important for early detection and treatment. Planned Parenthood offers various cancer screenings, such as Pap tests and HPV tests for cervical cancer, and clinical breast exams for breast cancer detection. These screenings aim to identify potential health issues early, when they are often most treatable.
Services include initial prenatal care and referrals for ongoing care, supporting individuals in early pregnancy. Planned Parenthood provides gender-affirming hormone therapy, offering care to transgender and nonbinary patients, including prescribing hormones like estrogen and testosterone. General reproductive health exams and wellness visits are available, ensuring comprehensive care for individuals’ sexual and overall health.