Fact Check: Abortions are actually up since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade.

Fact Check: "Abortions are actually up since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade."

What We Know

Since the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade in June 2022, recent studies indicate that the number of abortions in the United States has indeed increased. According to a report from the Society of Family Planning, the average number of abortions per month in the first quarter of 2024 was approximately 99,000, which is an increase from about 84,000 in the two months prior to the ruling (AP News). This trend aligns with findings from the Guttmacher Institute, which reported that the total number of abortions in 2023 reached approximately 1,037,000, marking an 11% increase since 2020 (Guttmacher).

The increase in abortions is attributed to several factors, including the expansion of telehealth services and protective laws in Democratic-controlled states that allow for easier access to abortion services (NBC News). States like Illinois and New Mexico, which border states with stricter abortion laws, have seen significant increases in abortion numbers as women seek services in more accessible locations (AP News).

Analysis

The claim that abortions have increased since the overturning of Roe v. Wade is supported by multiple credible sources. The data from the Society of Family Planning is particularly relevant as it is based on a comprehensive monthly survey that tracks abortion trends across the United States. The report indicates a clear upward trend in the number of abortions, especially in states where access remains legal and protected (AP News).

Furthermore, the Guttmacher Institute's findings corroborate this increase, noting that nearly all states without total abortion bans experienced a rise in the number of abortions provided (Guttmacher). This suggests that while access has decreased in states with strict bans, the overall national trend reflects an increase in abortions due to the migration of patients to states with more favorable laws.

However, it is important to note that the data may not capture the full picture, as some abortions may occur outside the formal healthcare system, which could lead to underreporting (Guttmacher). Additionally, the political landscape surrounding abortion remains contentious, with ongoing debates and potential legal challenges that could impact future trends.

Conclusion

Verdict: True
The claim that abortions have increased since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade is substantiated by credible data from reputable sources. The increase in abortions reflects a complex interplay of factors, including the expansion of telehealth services and protective laws in certain states, which have allowed women to access abortion care despite restrictions in other areas. The evidence indicates a significant rise in abortion numbers, particularly in states where access remains legal.

Fact Check: Abortions are actually up since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade.