Demand for Permanent Contraception Rises Sharply Following Roe v. Wade Reversal

A study finds young adults in abortion-restrictive states increasingly opt for sterilization procedures due to concerns over reproductive rights.

A new study published in Health Affairs reveals a significant increase in sterilizations among young adults after the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022.
Between May and August 2022, vasectomies rose by 95% and tubal sterilizations by 70% among individuals aged 19 to 26, particularly in states likely to ban abortion.
Survey respondents cited fear of losing access to abortion and other contraceptive options as key motivations for seeking permanent contraception.
The study highlights a broader trend of reproductive health decisions being influenced by uncertainty over legal access to abortion and contraceptives.
Researchers warn against fear-driven decisions while emphasizing the importance of ensuring access to all contraceptive methods for reproductive autonomy.