A recent report released by the Society of Family Planning found that the number of women getting abortions in the U.S. actually increased in the first three months of 2024 compared to before the Supreme Court overturned Roe v Wade. This increase was attributed to Democratic-controlled states enacting laws to protect doctors who use telemedicine to see patients in places with abortion bans. The #WeCount report also highlighted the impact of the Supreme Court’s ruling in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization on abortion access across the country.
The data collected by #WeCount showed that in states with bans on abortion in all stages of pregnancy, the number of abortions fell to nearly zero. Conversely, in states where abortion remains legal until later in pregnancy, such as Illinois, Kansas, and New Mexico, the numbers of abortions increased. Abortion pills and telemedicine played a significant role in providing access to abortion in states with bans or restrictions on abortion.
Abortion opponents have expressed concerns about the availability of the abortion drug mifepristone, but so far there have not been legal challenges to shield laws. The report also highlighted the potential impact of upcoming elections on abortion rights, with several states having ballot measures related to abortion access.
Overall, the data from #WeCount provides a snapshot of abortion trends in the U.S., showing how providers and patients have adapted to changing laws and regulations. The report reflects the complex and evolving landscape of abortion access in the country, with various states implementing different policies that impact the availability of abortion services.