The Trenton Times
August 18, 2009
Allison Howe

Since Aug. 11, Planned Parenthood Association of the Mercer Area has been offering vasectomy services at our Trenton health center. We are thrilled to announce the addition of vasectomy services to our full range of confidential, high-quality, comprehensive reproductive health-care services.

When individuals have access to the full range of reproductive health care "" including contraceptive services such as vasectomy "" they are able to plan their families. In fact, access to the full range of contraceptive services improves maternal and child health: When individuals are able to space pregnancies, the likelihood of a high-risk pregnancy and low-birth-weight baby is reduced and infant health and survival improves.

Contraceptive access provides societal benefits as well. Individuals who can plan their families have a much better chance of reaching their educational goals and meeting the challenges of parenthood. Their children are more likely to live in stable families, get the love and care they need, and -- if needed -- escape the cycle of poverty.

Planned Parenthood has had the privilege of serving the women, men and families of the Mercer Area for more than 75 years. The addition of vasectomy services is illustrative of our goal to offer the full range of contraceptive options to our community.

-- ALLISON HOWE, Trenton

The writer is vice president of health services for Planned Parenthood Association of the Mercer Area.