Planned Parenthood in Bulgaria.

: Since the beginning of the 20th century, the Bulgarian birthrate has decreased from 42.2/1000 in 1900 to 14.0/1000 in 1966. By 1974, it had risen slightly to 17/1000. In 1975 the Family Development Council became an associate member of International Planned Parenthood Federation. Almost all Bulgarian births occur in hospitals; about 85% of pregnant women receive early prenatal care; and planned parenthood consultation is available free as part of the public health service. Th e cost of contraceptives and abortion, which is legal, are minimal. Studies show that the desired family size is 2.2 and completed family size 1.8. Planned parenthood is regarded as an important element in the government demographic policy, which is clearly pronatalist. Many organizations cooperate with the government in enabling families to plan their number of children.