It's been a year. A year of living with COVID-19, a year of shutdowns, and local orders to shelter in place to stop the spread. We've lost loved ones, felt distanced from our communities and friends, and struggled through job losses in order to make ends meet. Thankfully, additional relief is on the way as President Biden has signed the American Rescue Plan Act, which will provide much-needed aid to the communities we serve.

As you can imagine, the pandemic has affected the way we access much-needed health care. Restrictions were placed on everything from the services providers could offer to who was allowed to accompany you during prenatal visits. Many of us were scared to leave our homes for routine check-ups, due to preexisting conditions and fear of catching the virus.

Many of you have shared with us how COVID-19 has affected your own sexual and reproductive health: “Earlier this year, I was laid off from my job due to COVID-19. My employer only offered one extra month of health insurance coverage. I decided to try Planned Parenthood, having never used your services. I went online and made a telehealth appointment, and was able to come in that day. I even qualified for free birth control!”
-Ali

“I have been more conscientious about my health since the pandemic began. I had no desire to start a family any time soon. In May, I decided to put my health and priorities first, and visited Planned Parenthood Atlanta to get my very first IUD. Now I can rest assured knowing that my reproductive health is within my control.”
-Jessica

“I started my first job as a registered nurse in March of 2020, right as the pandemic surged. Once I became eligible for health benefits through my employer, I was devastated to discover many providers weren't accepting new patients. Trying to get women's care from an OB/GYN proved nearly impossible. I finally reached out to Planned Parenthood and was able to be seen within a week!”
-Samantha

Through it all, Planned Parenthood has been here for you. All 49 Planned Parenthood affiliates are now providing telehealth services to help ensure everyone has access to care. Digital platforms, like our website, our chatbot Roo, and our app SpotOn, were expanded to include important information about COVID-19 and the pandemic's effect on sexual and reproductive health.

We want to share some stats and stories that show just how the Planned Parenthood community has met the challenges created by this pandemic. We're here for you, and we'll be here for you as long as it takes.



We want to know how this past year has affected you; if you have thoughts or personal experiences you'd want to share, we're here to listen. Tell us how COVID-19 has impacted your sexual and reproductive health.

It's been a tough year, but together we have risen to face the challenge. Stay safe, and thank you.