Zero Abortions Reported in Several States—But Experts Say the Data Is Misleading

In a notable turn of events, Arkansas, South Dakota, and Idaho recorded nearly zero abortions in 2023, marking the first complete year following the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. State records indicate that Arkansas reported no abortions, South Dakota also recorded none, and Idaho noted only five. Anti-abortion advocates have celebrated the figures as evidence of their policies' effectiveness, while medical professionals and data analysts contend that the numbers are deceptive and do not reflect the complete picture of reproductive healthcare.

Dr. Amy Kelley, an OB-GYN in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, described the official statistics as “ludicrous,” highlighting that she and her colleagues have treated numerous patients who sought medical attention after taking abortion pills or facing complications from nonviable pregnancies. “I can easily recall five that I dealt with,” she said.

WeCount, a national research initiative monitoring abortions, noted an increase in total abortions in 2023, which stands in contrast to state reports. The organization estimates that between April and June 2024, an average of 240 telehealth abortions took place each month in Arkansas, a figure not reflected in state data.

Official reports indicate significant decreases in abortion procedures when compared to earlier years. In 2021, Texas documented 50,783 abortions, whereas in 2023, merely 60 were noted. Idaho experienced a significant decline in abortions, falling from 1,553 in 2021 to only five in 2023. Anti-abortion groups such as Arkansas Right to Life claim this indicates a decline in the number of women seeking abortions, while critics contend that restrictive laws merely drive patients to pursue care beyond conventional healthcare environments.

While anti-abortion activists express a celebratory tone, there are those within their movement who recognize that state figures fail to consider self-managed or out-of-state abortions. “Women continue to seek abortions in Arkansas,” stated Rose Mimms of Arkansas Right to Life. “We’re not foolish.”

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