Self-managed abortions have become more common in the US post-Dobbs, study shows

Access to abortion facilities has become more restricted in the United States since the revocation of the federal right to abortion by the Supreme Court. As a result, there has been an increase in self-managed abortions using unsafe and ineffective methods. A recent study published in a medical journal reveals that the percentage of women who have self-managed an abortion has risen by about 40% since the court decision. The study, based on surveys of over 14,000 women under 50, suggests that self-managed abortions are more common than reported due to the sensitive and stigmatized nature of the topic. The research estimates that more than 1 in 10 women will attempt to self-manage an abortion in their lifetime. Self-managed abortions often involve the use of abortion pills, but ineffective and unsafe methods such as taking herbs or hitting oneself in the stomach are also prevalent. Despite the risks, privacy concerns, cost, and fear of encountering protestors at clinics lead many women to choose self-management. The study highlights the need to expand access to safe and effective alternative models of abortion care and ensure that those seeking healthcare after self-managed abortions are not exposed to legal risks.