Record Number of Abortions in England and Wales

The number of abortions in England and Wales reached a record high in 2022 with 251,377 abortions, a 17% rise from 2021. Financial pressures and limited access to contraception are significant factors, as reported by MSI Reproductive Choices. The option of at-home abortions, made permanent last year, and the 25-29 age group saw the largest increase in abortion rates.

The number of abortions in England and Wales reached a record high in 2022, with the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) reporting 251,377 abortions, a 17% increase from 2021.

MSI Reproductive Choices attributes this rise to financial pressures and limited access to contraception due to overstretched NHS services.

Another contributing factor is the improved access to at-home abortions, made permanent in 2022, which accounted for 61% of all procedures.

The 25-29 age group saw the largest increase in abortion rates, climbing to 31.4 per 1,000 women.

A survey by the British Pregnancy Advisory Service (Bpas) found that financial concerns influenced the decision to terminate pregnancies for 57% of respondents.

Additionally, 36% reported difficulties in accessing desired contraception.

The anti-abortion group Right To Life UK labeled the figures a 'national tragedy.'