A new peer-reviewed study of a national, random sample of women reveals a troubling connection between abortion and suicide risk. According to AfterAbortion.org, one-third of women who have had an abortion report attempting suicide, with 94% stating their abortion contributed to their attempt.
The study also found that by age 45, 35% of women with a history of abortion had attempted suicide. Among women who had experienced natural pregnancy loss, such as miscarriage, 30% reported suicide attempts. In comparison, only 17% of never-pregnant women and 13% of women who had only live births had attempted suicide.
While abortion providers often attribute this suicide risk to pre-existing mental health conditions, study author David Reardon—who has published over 50 peer-reviewed studies on abortion and women’s health—disputes that claim. He emphasized that this study disproves the argument that women who have abortions are simply more prone to suicide. It is the first study to invite self-aware women to explain how their pregnancy outcomes have influenced their mental health.
The findings reveal that both abortion and miscarriage are directly linked to increased suicidal thoughts and behaviors. The risk is particularly high among women who felt pressured into abortion. The study also confirmed previous research indicating that only about one in three abortions is freely chosen and consistent with the woman’s values and preferences.
To address this crisis, Massachusetts Citizens for Life has sponsored Bill H.D. 879, “An Act Relative to Coerced Abortion.” This legislation seeks to protect women from the hidden but harmful practice of coerced abortion. Learn more and take action at our Legislative Action Center.