Every Planned Parenthood patient has their own story. And every single one of those stories matters. Take Lisa's, from North Carolina:
"I was on four different types of birth control in four months. I was sexually active with my boyfriend at the time, and wanted the freedom to go about my life without worrying about getting pregnant.

I had been on the pill since I was 16, at first for acne and then to prevent pregnancy. But taking it at the same time every day did not fit with my schedule — I was working in events in Hollywood and had crazy hours where I would often miss my birth control alarm and would end up skipping a day or doubling up.

The second method of birth control I took was the NuvaRing. I ended up having an allergic reaction to the ring which caused my body to swell up. I didn't make the connection until later, after going to multiple appointments with a rheumatologist, and after they misdiagnosed me with arthritis. It took a year for my body to get back to normal.

After that, I went on the Mirena [hormonal IUD] for my third method of birth control. That promptly came out with my tampon within the first month and I experienced a terrible hormone crash and was doubled over in pain for two days. I almost went to the emergency room.

After that, I swore off hormonal birth control and landed with the copper IUD, which I am still on and will be hitting my 10 years with soon. I plan to have another one put in once this one expires, because I do not plan on having kids of my own, perhaps ever.

The misdiagnosis and coming to understand the impact that hormones had on my body was traumatic. But that journey was necessary to get to the IUD. At the time I was going through the motions of trial and error to find the right birth control for me, because this is what I needed to do, had to do.

Because of these experiences, at the age of 32, I am now understanding the importance of having the bodily autonomy to make choices for myself. Everybody's BODY is different. My story just goes to show that what works for some doesn't work for all. And having the power to figure that out is a human right."
Lisa's journey to find what best works for her and her body was in her words, traumatic. Everyone's needs are unique, and that's why it's so important for patients and providers to make medical decisions without interference, and why Planned Parenthood health centers strive every day to provide excellent care to every patient they see.

I'm so thankful Lisa shared her story with us and you, and is now fighting for policy that ensures access to comprehensive and high-quality reproductive health care for all.

Thank you for taking the time,