family planning

American  

noun

1. the concept or a program of limiting the size of families through the spacing or prevention of pregnancies, especially for economic reasons.

2. (loosely) birth control.

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family planning British  

noun

1. the control of the number of children in a family and of the intervals between them, esp by the use of contraceptives See also birth control

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family planning Cultural  

1. The use of education and birth control to limit the number of offspring and the population of a country. (See population control and Margaret Sanger.)

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Etymology

Origin of family planning

First recorded in 1935–40

Example Sentences

“They put all of this fear into it, but family planning isn’t just about preventing pregnancy. It’s about learning about how to build your family.”

From Salon • Mar. 19, 2026

China in 2021 further relaxed its strict family planning controls, allowing couples to have three children -- something many couples, especially those living in cities, are reluctant to do.

From Barron's • Jan. 5, 2026

“It’s the entire family planning budget that has gone,” she said.

From Salon • Oct. 25, 2025

Affiliates rely on a variety of funding sources, including private donations, state Medicaid programs, family planning funds, and patient fees.

From Slate • Jul. 29, 2025

Every married couple should put themselves in the hands of a physician whom they respect and admire, making him an indispensable third partner to their family planning.

From The Good Housekeeping Marriage Book by Bigelow, William F. (William Frederick)