Family Planning

The Department of Public Health's Family Planning Program currently contracts with eight agencies that serve 45 of Iowa's 99 counties. Family planning clinics are conducted in 33 of the 45 counties served. Family Planning Council of Iowa provides services to 54 Iowa counties.

Clinics offer these services to Iowa residents:

Medical Services

• Birth control exams and supplies
• Tests and treatment for sexually transmitted diseases
• Cancer screening: Pap smears and breast exams
• Infertility exams, counseling, and referral
• Tests for high blood pressure and anemia
• Pregnancy tests

Health Education

• Birth Control methods
• Reproductive health
• Self exams for breast or testicular cancer
• Sexually transmitted diseases and HIV/AIDS
• Importance of nutrition
• Effects of alcohol, drugs, and tobacco on reproductive health

Information

• How to plan a healthy pregnancy
• How to talk with parents and others about sexuality
• How to make responsible sexual decisions

Community Education

• Public speakers and educational materials
• Parent-child communication
• Reproductive health
• Birth control
• Other family planning-related issues

Costs for Service at family planning clinics are based on ability to pay, and are often less than at other health centers. Services are free for people enrolled in Medicaid and those whose income is below the federal poverty guidelines. Family planning clinics offer quality, confidential health care. Medical services are provided by physicians and nurse practitioners trained in family planning health care. Educational programs offered respond to local community needs.

Other Information

• Location of Family Planning Services 
• Iowa Family Planning Network (IFPN) 
• Iowa Women's Health Information Center  
  The Iowa Women's Health Information Center web site and toll-free call center was created to provide free objective, medically accurate health information in Iowa. Browse our data base or take a look at the Health A to Z sections for topics of interest. The information provided is not intended to be a substitute for consulting a licensed health care professional.

For community-based services information contact:

• Healthy Families Line 1-800-369-2229

For more information:

• Janet L. Peterson, RN, MHA
  Lucas State Office Bldg.
  321 East 12th Street
  Des Moines, IA 50319-0075
  Voice: (515) 242-6388
  Fax: (515) 242-6384
• You may also use the "Contact Us" page to submit questions online.