PRESS RELEASE: Abortion statistics for the first half of 2022 released (England and Wales)

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New figures for the first six months of 2022 show that 123,219 abortions took place in England and Wales. This compares with 105,488 over the same period in 2021 – an increase of 17%, which may reflect the impact of the cost-of-living crisis.

The majority of abortions took place in the early stages of pregnancy: 67% up to and including 7 weeks gestation; 93% up to and including 12 weeks, and 98% up to and including 17 weeks gestation. Telemedicine accounted for 50% of terminations each quarter since April to June 2021.

The lack of abortion services across the island of Ireland, despite the changes in the law, show up in the 346 abortions to women recorded as living outside England and Wales. Most, 28%, were from Northern Ireland and 25% from the Republic of Ireland. 

Abortion Rights Chair Kerry Abel said in response, ‘We don’t know why abortions have gone up, but many have speculated that it’s a result of the cost of living crisis. I am glad, however, that it’s clear that changes to the way women and pregnant people can access abortion pills through telemedicine routes have improved services and resulted in swifter abortions, which is therefore better for care all round.’

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NOTES TO THE EDITOR

• Abortion Rights: Leading the Charge for Reproductive Rights. Abortion Rights is the sole national organisation wholly committed to championing and advancing reproductive rights. Our pivotal role lies in promoting and facilitating access to safe, legal, and timely abortions. With an unyielding dedication, Abortion Rights ensure that individuals have the essential resources and support needed to make informed decisions regarding their reproductive health.
• To learn more about the impactful work of Abortion Rights, please visit our website at www.abortionrights.org.uk. Join the movement for reproductive rights and be part of the transformative change they are working towards.
• For media inquiries, please contact: choice@abortionrights.org.uk
• For a response on Scotland’s statistics
• Polling consistently indicates strong public support for pro-choice views on abortion.
• 1 in 3 women will have at least one abortion in her lifetime, highlighting the commonality of the procedure.
• The World Health Organization (WHO) affirms that abortion pills, when used according to their guidelines, are considered safe and effective.