Reproductive Decisions

The American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) encourages all family physicians to provide patient education on contraceptive options at every available opportunity to avoid unintended pregnancies. In the event of an unintended pregnancy, family physicians should educate patients about all options. If a patient desires termination of their pregnancy or adoption, family physicians should provide resources to facilitate those services. If a family physician's beliefs conflict with their ability to provide the requested resources or education, the family physician should ask a colleague to provide this information in a timely fashion rather than omit it. Additionally, the AAFP encourages family physicians to stay informed of all state and federal laws as they apply to reproductive health.

Entities that provide pregnancy or abortion services must clearly and honestly communicate the services they offer and any referrals before care begins. They should support oversight mechanisms for organizations offering pregnancy-related services and counseling, and ensure that all care is delivered by qualified, licensed professionals in compliance with federal health information privacy laws. Entities should advocate for public funding of organizations that provide complete, non-directive, and medically accurate information to help patients make informed and voluntary decisions.

(1989) (July 2026 BOD)