A recent research estimate published in JAMA Internal Medicine reveals that over 64,000 women and girls became pregnant due to rape in states that implemented abortion bans after the overruling of Roe v. Wade.
The study, led by the medical director at Planned Parenthood of Montana, examined data from 14 states, estimating nearly 520,000 rapes associated with 64,565 pregnancies.
Disturbing Statistics
Texas ranked highest, with approximately 45% of rape-related pregnancies occurring within the state.
Shockingly, 91% of these pregnancies occurred in states without exceptions for rape, indicating a significant gap in providing reasonable access to abortion for survivors, according to the researchers.
The research utilized data from various sources, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Bureau of Justice Statistics, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Dr. Kari White, an executive and scientific director at pro-abortion rights group Resound Research for Reproductive Health, expressed concern about the “really shockingly high” numbers, emphasizing the prevalence of rape in the United States.
Sexual violence affects millions each year, with over half of women and nearly one in three men experiencing sexual violence involving physical contact during their lifetimes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
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Abortion Bans and Reproductive Autonomy
Abortion bans, particularly those without exceptions for rape, are perceived as obstacles to reproductive autonomy and personal decision-making. Dr. White noted that survivors of rape already have their reproductive autonomy compromised, and state policies further hinder their ability to make decisions about their healthcare.
Twelve states are enforcing almost complete abortion bans, while Wisconsin and North Dakota face complications in abortion access due to legal uncertainty and the relocation of North Dakota’s only abortion clinic.
The Supreme Court’s overruling of Roe v. Wade in June 2022 marked a significant shift, leading to a surge in states restricting or banning abortion.
Since the Dobbs decision, there has been an increase in patients traveling across state lines for abortions.
President Joe Biden has advocated for expanding reproductive rights, emphasizing the importance of enshrining Roe v. Wade protections into law. He has expressed willingness to sign a bill passed by Congress that reinstates abortion protections provided by Roe.
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