E105: The Financial Domain of Family Planning

Informed family planning can influence life trajectories. Historically, children were considered economic assets: laborers, caregivers in old age, and contributors to survival in agricultural societies. But as industrialization reshaped society, survival no longer depended on large families, and financial realities shifted, making family planning a key determinant of long-term economic stability.

In the financial domain of family planning, Kirtly Jones, MD, and Katie Ward, PhD, are joined by Shireen Ghorbani, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood of Utah, to discuss how economic factors influence reproductive choices and outcomes. The conversation highlights the critical role of education, intention, and access in ensuring that individuals can have children when—and if—they choose. Whether contraception or infertility support, financial foresight and accessible health care can empower individuals to shape their futures.