Abortions rise in England and Wales to record high in 2023

Government data show abortions rose 11% in 2023 to an age-standardised rate of 23.0 per 1,000, the highest since 1967; providers and doctors cite the cost of living and limited access to contraception as contributing factors.

Official statistics published this week show abortions in England and Wales increased by 11% in 2023 compared with 2022. The age-standardised abortion rate for women was 23.0 per 1,000, the highest recorded since the Abortion Act of 1967. Providers and medical bodies reported that the rising cost of living and difficulties accessing contraception helped drive the rise. Key points: - Abortions rose 11% in 2023 versus the previous year, with an age-standardised rate of 23.0 per 1,000 women. - Providers and doctors cited economic pressure and limited contraception access as contributors to the increase. - Since the COVID pandemic, at-home early medical abortion made up 72% of all terminations in 2023. - The share of terminations at up to nine weeks gestation has increased over the past decade, reaching around 89%. Summary: The published data show a measurable increase in abortion rates in 2023 and service delivery has shifted toward earlier, at-home care since the pandemic. Officials and providers point to economic pressures and access to contraception as context for the rise. Wider policy responses or specific follow-up actions were not detailed. Undetermined at this time.