Headline: Abortion Rates on the Rise in Illinois and New Mexico, Study Shows
Subheadline: Guttmacher Institute Study Highlights Increased Access to Abortion and Bordering States’ Influence
Illinois and New Mexico have seen surprising increases in abortion rates, according to a new study released by the Guttmacher Institute. The institute’s research reveals that Illinois recorded a significant increase of 18,300 more abortions in the first half of this year in comparison to 2020, representing a staggering 69% increase. Meanwhile, New Mexico experienced an alarming 220% jump in the number of abortions.
One of the primary factors contributing to these increases is attributed to the states’ enactment of laws aimed at protecting access to abortion. Furthermore, their close proximity to states with more restrictive abortion laws also plays a significant role. The study also found that neighboring states like Montana, Wyoming, and Ohio observed small increases in abortion rates.
Although states with abortion bans do allow for a limited number of exceptions, the overall access to abortion remains restricted. This could explain the rise in abortion rates in these particular states. It is important to note that the study only measured abortions that occurred in clinics, hospitals, and doctor’s offices, meaning it did not account for self-managed abortions.
The COVID-19 pandemic and expanded telehealth services have also contributed to the increase in abortion rates. As individuals faced various challenges during the pandemic, including limited access to contraception and healthcare facilities, abortion rates saw an uptick. These factors, combined with pre-existing trends of increasing abortion rates, have resulted in the significant rises witnessed in Illinois and New Mexico.
Looking ahead, the Guttmacher Institute plans to regularly update their data. In the near future, they will publish data focusing on the impact of new abortion bans in Indiana, South Carolina, and North Carolina. This will shed further light on the ongoing conversation surrounding access to abortion and its implications across the United States.
As states grapple with differing abortion policies, understanding the impact of these laws is crucial. The Guttmacher Institute’s research serves as a valuable resource for policymakers, healthcare providers, and advocates in their efforts to ensure reproductive rights and access to safe and legal abortion procedures.
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