Two new studies published in the Journal of the American Medical Association reveal that in the year following the Supreme Court’s 2022 Roe v. Wade decision, most states with abortion bans experienced increases in both infant mortality and births.
These studies highlight the disproportionate impact on socioeconomically disadvantaged individuals. Researchers suggest abortion bans may worsen racial disparities, particularly affecting Southern states with high pre-existing infant mortality rates and a significant Black population.
The researchers analyzed birth and death certificates, along with U.S. Census Bureau data, from 2012 to 2023, comparing data before and after the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization ruling. One study estimated a 5.6% increase in infant mortality above expectations in states with near-total or six-week abortion bans, translating to approximately 478 more infant deaths. Another study estimated a 1.7% increase in births above expectations in these states, resulting in roughly 22,000 additional births.
During the study period, 14 states implemented near-total or six-week abortion bans; this number rose to 16 by mid-February 2025.
Texas significantly influenced the overall results due to its large population, greater distances to abortion services, and its earlier implementation of a six-week abortion ban (September 2021).
The studies also showed larger increases in infant mortality among groups with already high rates, including Black infants and those in Southern states. One study found an 11% increase in mortality for Black infants in states with abortion bans.
Brown University School of Public Health professor Alyssa Bilinski, while not involved in the studies, wrote an accompanying editorial emphasizing the need for further research into the effects of abortion restrictions. She suggested improving access to Medicaid, parental leave, and affordable childcare to support pregnant individuals and infants.
Bilinski’s editorial underscores the shared goal of ensuring children and families thrive, advocating for policies that address the harms highlighted in the studies and promote a healthier, more equitable society.
