Self-managed abortions happen outside of the formal health-care system and without the formal supervision of a doctor or nurse.
The new study suggests that self-managing an abortion with abortion pills has become more common, rising from about 18% of attempts pre-Dobbs to 24% post-Dobbs.
Other research has found that abortions within the formal health care system have increased in the US post-Dobbs, driven by a spike in medication abortions, especially those provided through telehealth.
“As barriers to facility-based abortion grow, (self-managed abortion) may increasingly become an individual’s only or preferred option to end a pregnancy,” the researchers wrote.
“These findings suggest the need to expand access to alternative models of safe and effective abortion care and ensure those seeking health care post-(self-managed abortion) do not face legal risks.”
Persons:
Dobbs, underreporting, Dr, Sanjay Gupta, ”
Organizations:
CNN, JAMA, underreporting, CNN Health
Locations:
United States, telehealth