Planned Parenthood Federation of America

Planned Parenthood Federation of America, organization that promotes voluntary family planning in the United States and developing countries. Through a network of clinics staffed by some 27,000 volunteers, it provides counseling and distributes information on birth control and other health issues. Abortions are performed at some clinics. Founded in 1916 by Margaret Sanger, a U.S. nurse, Planned Parenthood promotes government legislation supporting family planning and reproductive rights for women. It is a member organization of the International Planned Parenthood Federation, headquartered in London.