The Impact of Abortion Bans: 32,000 More US Births Annually

An analysis of birth data from states with abortion bans following the overturning of Roe v. Wade shows that births increased in every state with a ban, indicating that the bans have had their intended effect. Researchers estimate that the bans caused around 32,000 annual births, with one-fifth to one-fourth of women in ban states not obtaining abortions. The increase in births was disproportionately among women in their 20s and Black and Hispanic women, who may face greater barriers to travel. The availability of online abortion pills and the opening of new clinics in legal states have likely contributed to the steady or slightly increased number of legal abortions nationwide.