Abortion Trends in the United States
In 2023, there were more abortions in the US than in any year since 2011 despite nearly half of states banning or planning to ban the procedure. Factors contributing to the increase include travel out of state for abortion, improved access policies, and more people choosing medication abortion.
Key Points
- Abortion incidence in the US increased in 2023 despite state bans
- Travel out of state and medication abortion are contributing factors
- Improved access policies in some states have led to more abortions
- Some unknowns remain about the driving factors behind the increase
Pros
- Increased access to abortion despite state restrictions
- Growing use of medication abortion, a safe and effective option
Cons
- Financial and logistical challenges for those traveling out of state
- Anti-abortion movement's efforts to restrict access to medication abortion