Abortion numbers increase in 2000

Statistics released for 2000 from the Michigan Department of Community Health show a slight rise of 2.3 percent from the 1999 numbers for abortions in Michigan. This is only the second annual increase in Michigan abortions since 1987.

Right to Life of Michigan President Barbara Listing said, "It is disappointing to see an increase in abortion numbers in 2000, but the number of abortions is still much lower than it was 10 to 15 years ago. Michigan offers a climate where the right to life is respected. Each abortion in Michigan serves as a reminder to reach out to all women in need, helping them to accept life for their unborn children."

Even though the number of abortions has risen in 2000, there has been a dramatic decrease in Michigan abortions since 1987, when abortions in Michigan reached a high of 49,098. This is a decrease of 45.4 percent from the 1987 abortion numbers.

There are a few major statistical trends possibly attributing to the increase of abortions in 2000.

The repeat abortion rate has risen to 48.7 percent. This means that nearly one out of every 2 women obtaining an abortion has already had at least one prior abortion. The number of women having an abortion for the first time has slowly decreased from 66 percent in 1980, down to slightly more than 50 percent in 2000. Women having at least 2 abortions have increased from 9.5 percent of abortions in 1980 to 22.5 percent in 2000.

The rate for abortions performed on minors in Michigan increased by 1.5 percent in 2000. Yet, there has been an overall rate drop since 1990 of 55.4 percent among minors. Comparatively, there has been a rate of decrease of 18.4 percent among adult women in the state of Michigan.

Listing said, "Abortion must never be the only choice offered to women in need. Right to Life of Michigan is working to ensure that women know people are willing to support and assist those who are struggling with an unexpected or crisis pregnancy. Our toll-free number, 1-800-57-WOMAN, is a lifeline for women."

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