Illinois Continues to See Abortion Numbers Decrease

abortion
Each year, roughly 3,000 women from other states travel to Illinois for abortions, adding to Illinois’ totals. (Photo by citylab.com)

By Haley Kosik/WJEZ News

Abortions in Illinois are declining, following a nation-wide trend.

The state’s yearly abortion numbers remain low after reaching the lowest number of 40,750 abortions. Between 2010 and 2013, the state saw a 2.6 percent decrease in abortion numbers.

The state normally channels woman from other states to receive abortions here due to our nonrestrictive abortion laws. Each year, roughly 3,000 women from other states travel to Illinois for abortions, adding to Illinois’ totals.

Planned Parenthood of Illinois sponsor Carol Brite attributed the state decline to women choosing effective birth control methods and limiting unintended pregnancies.

Emily Zender of Illinois Right to Life said the state has more than 50 resource centers that offer alternative choices to abortion.

A national Associated Press survey of states showed a decrease in abortions of about 12 percent since 2010 overall.