What Planned Parenthood does and who runs it
Planned Parenthood is a network of health clinics run by a nonprofit organization that provides reproductive health services, cancer screenings, contraception, and sexual health education. The organization operates about 600 health centers across the United States. Each center is independently operated but follows Planned Parenthood's clinical standards and mission.
Planned Parenthood is not a government agency — it is a private nonprofit. Some of its funding comes from federal and state grants, some from insurance reimbursement, and some from private donations. The organization does not receive a lump sum of government money; instead, it is reimbursed for specific services provided to patients who are covered by Medicaid, Medicare, or private insurance, the same way other clinics are.
Services vary by location. A large urban center may offer dozens of services; a smaller clinic may focus on a narrower set. Before visiting, you can check what your nearest location offers on the Planned Parenthood website or by calling directly.
Key Takeaways
- Planned Parenthood clinics provide contraception, cancer screenings, STI testing and treatment, pregnancy services, and sexual health education — not all services are available at every location.
- You can find your nearest clinic and see what services it offers by searching the Planned Parenthood website or calling 1-800-230-7526.
- Costs vary by service and by your income; many clinics use a sliding fee scale so you pay based on what you earn.
- You do not need insurance to visit, and Planned Parenthood can help you understand payment options before your appointment.
- Planned Parenthood also provides sexual health education and information through its website and hotline, which you can use without visiting a clinic.
Types of services Planned Parenthood clinics offer
The most common services are contraception (birth control pills, patches, IUDs, implants, and barrier methods), STI testing and treatment, cancer screenings (including Pap tests and breast exams), and pregnancy-related services. Pregnancy services include pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, and counseling about your options — continuing the pregnancy, adoption, or abortion. Not all clinics offer abortion services; availability depends on state law and the individual clinic's offerings.
Many clinics also offer general sexual health services: testing for HIV and other infections, treatment for yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis, and routine gynecological exams. Some locations provide transgender health services, including hormone therapy and related care. Educational services — classes on sexual health, contraception, and relationships — are offered at many locations, often free or low-cost.
To find out what your nearest clinic offers, visit plannedparenthood.org, enter your zip code, and select the clinic. The listing will show services available there. If you do not see what you need, call the clinic directly; staff can tell you whether they offer it or refer you elsewhere.
How to find a Planned Parenthood clinic and make an appointment
The fastest way is to use the clinic locator on plannedparenthood.org. Enter your zip code and you will see nearby locations, hours, and services. You can also call 1-800-230-7526 to speak with someone who can help you find a clinic and answer questions about services.
Most clinics accept walk-ins for some services (like STI testing or contraception refills) but require appointments for others (like cancer screenings or abortion services). When you call or visit, ask whether you need an appointment or can walk in. If you do need an appointment, many clinics let you book online or by phone. Some use scheduling apps; others take calls during business hours.
Bring a photo ID and your insurance card if you have one. If you do not have insurance, tell the clinic when you call or arrive — they will walk you through payment options before you are seen.
What it costs and how to pay
Costs depend on the service, your location, and your income. A Pap test might cost $0 to $125 depending on these factors. Birth control pills might be $15 to $50 per month. An IUD insertion might be $0 to $1,300. These are examples only; your actual cost will depend on your clinic and situation.
Most Planned Parenthood clinics use a sliding fee scale, which means the cost is based on your household income and family size. If you earn less, you pay less. If you have no income, some services may be free. When you call or arrive, ask about the sliding scale and bring recent pay stubs or tax documents so the clinic can calculate your fee.
If you have insurance (Medicaid, Medicare, or private insurance), Planned Parenthood will bill your insurance. You may still owe a copay or coinsurance depending on your plan. If you do not have insurance, you can pay out of pocket using the sliding scale, or ask whether the clinic offers payment plans.
Planned Parenthood and your privacy
Planned Parenthood clinics follow the same privacy rules as other health providers. Your medical records are confidential and protected by federal law (HIPAA). The clinic will not contact your parents, employer, or insurance company without your permission — with narrow exceptions for abuse or imminent danger.
If you are a minor, privacy rules vary by state. Some states require parental consent or notification for certain services; others do not. When you call or visit, ask about your state's rules. Planned Parenthood staff can tell you what information they are required to share and what remains confidential.
Your visit will not appear on your parents' insurance bill if you are on their plan, because Planned Parenthood can often bill in a way that protects your privacy. Ask the clinic about this when you call.
Information and education outside the clinic
Planned Parenthood's website (plannedparenthood.org) has detailed information about contraception, STIs, pregnancy, sexual health, and relationships. You can read articles, watch videos, and find answers to common questions without visiting a clinic. The site also has a section for teens with age-appropriate information.
The organization also runs a text line and email service where you can ask questions about sexual health and receive answers from health educators. These services are free and confidential. You can find the contact information on the Planned Parenthood website.
Many Planned Parenthood clinics offer free or low-cost classes and workshops on topics like contraception, sexual communication, and sexual health. Ask your local clinic whether it offers these programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need insurance to go to Planned Parenthood?
No. Planned Parenthood serves patients with and without insurance. If you do not have insurance, the clinic will discuss payment options with you, including sliding fee scales based on income. Many services are low-cost or free depending on your earnings.
Will my parents learn about I visit Planned Parenthood?
Privacy rules depend on your state and your age. Some states require parental consent or notification for certain services; others do not. Call your nearest clinic and ask about your state's rules — staff can tell you exactly what is confidential and what must be reported. If you are on your parents' insurance, the clinic may be able to bill in a way that keeps your visit private.
Does Planned Parenthood only provide abortion services?
No. Abortion is one service offered at some Planned Parenthood clinics, but most visits are for contraception, cancer screenings, STI testing, and general reproductive health care. Not all clinics offer abortion; availability depends on state law and the individual location.
How do I know if my nearest clinic offers the service I need?
Use the clinic locator on plannedparenthood.org and select your location — it will list services available there. You can also call the clinic directly or call 1-800-230-7526 to ask. If your clinic does not offer what you need, staff can refer you to another provider.
Can I get birth control without a pelvic exam?
It depends on the type of birth control and your clinic's policy. Some methods (like pills or patches) may not require a full pelvic exam; others (like IUDs) do. Call your clinic and describe what you are interested in — they can tell you what to expect before your visit.