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11mo ago

Abortion Bans Linked to Decline in Birth Control Access

New study reveals significant drop in contraceptive prescriptions in states with restrictive abortion laws post-Dobbs decision.

Plan-B, emergency contraceptive, on the self in a drug store in Annapolis, Maryland, on July 6, 2022. - The US Supreme Court ruling that overturned the right to abortion spurred a rush to prepare for an America where the procedure is banned in many states. "Birth control," "IUD" and even medical sterilization have all jumped in internet search trends, and drugstore chains have limited purchases of so-called morning-after pills to cope with demand. (Photo by Jim WATSON / AFP) (Photo by JIM WATSON/AFP via Getty Images)
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Birth Control pills. Photo via Bruce Blaus of Wikimedia Commons.

Overview

  • States with strict abortion laws saw a 24% decline in birth control prescriptions.
  • Emergency contraception prescriptions fell 65% in these states in the second year post-Dobbs.
  • Confusion over the legality of emergency contraception persists, particularly in restrictive states.
  • Family planning clinic closures have exacerbated access issues for many women.
  • Efforts to safeguard access to contraceptives are urgently needed, researchers suggest.