Shift to Natural Contraceptives Linked to Rise in Abortions, Study Finds

Research highlights a decline in hormonal contraceptive use and growing reliance on fertility tracking methods, with potential implications for unintended pregnancies.

A study published in BMJ Sexual & Reproductive Health reveals a significant increase in women seeking abortions who were using natural contraceptive methods, rising from 0.4% in 2018 to 2.5% in 2023.
The use of hormonal contraceptives, such as the pill and implants, declined from 18.8% to 11.3% during the same period, with access barriers cited as a contributing factor.
Natural contraceptive methods, including fertility tracking apps, are less effective with typical use compared to hormonal options, leading to a higher risk of unintended pregnancies.
Social media-driven 'hormone hesitancy' and a preference for non-hormonal approaches are influencing the shift, particularly among younger women, whose average age dropped from 30 to 27.
Experts emphasize the need for improved access to a full range of contraceptive options, including modern long-acting methods, to address healthcare gaps and reduce unintended pregnancies.