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Research Uncovers Rise in Infant Mortality After Dobbs Ruling
A recent investigation has revealed that infant mortality rates in the United States increased following the Supreme Court’s 2022 decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health. This trend was particularly pronounced among infants diagnosed with chromosomal and genetic abnormalities, according to new research published today (October 21) in JAMA Pediatrics.
The study, led by researchers Maria Gallo and Parvati Singh from The Ohio State University, draws parallels to earlier studies conducted in Texas which examined the aftermath of strict abortion prohibitions. Their findings emphasize the broader public health ramifications associated with limiting access to abortion services.
“In the seven to 14 months post-Roe v. Wade being overturned, we identified a 7% rise in overall infant mortality rates, alongside a notable 10% increase in deaths among those infants affected by congenital anomalies,” explained Singh, who serves as an assistant professor of epidemiology.
Between 2018 and 2023, the monthly average for infant mortality across the U.S. stood at 5.6 deaths per 1,000 live births, while mortality rates among infants with congenital anomalies averaged 1.3 deaths per 1,000 live births. In their comparative analysis of periods before and after the Dobbs decision, the researchers calculated that there were an unexpected 247 additional infant deaths each month, with 204 of those attributed specifically to chromosomal and genetic conditions.
Gallo highlighted that the increase in infant mortality following the Dobbs decision was unforeseen by many. “People may not have anticipated that infant deaths would rise in the aftermath of Dobbs,” she stated. “However, restricting healthcare access often leads to significant and unanticipated public health challenges.”
The study itself does not differentiate results by state; however, the researchers anticipate that states with stricter abortion legislation would likely experience more pronounced effects.
To assess the impact of the Dobbs ruling on infant mortality rates, particularly relating to congenital issues, the research team analyzed a national birth outcomes database, focusing on patterns from 2018 through 2023.
“Under normal circumstances, birth outcomes within large populations such as the U.S. are relatively stable,” Singh noted, mentioning that any fluctuations in infant mortality typically follow predictable seasonal trends. The researchers controlled for these routine variations in their analysis.
“The additional deaths we recorded correspond primarily to babies born to individuals who became pregnant in the early months of 2022,” Singh added.
The research did not indicate a continued rise in infant mortality beyond 14 months following the decision. “Whether this trend will persist is still uncertain,” Gallo remarked. “It could continue if access to abortion services remains limited in various states. Conversely, there’s potential for policymakers to recognize public demand and enact constitutional amendments to safeguard access.”
Looking ahead, the researchers aim to delve into the implications of these findings across different demographic groups, especially those who may face heightened challenges when healthcare is restricted. They also express a desire to investigate maternal mortality rates further.
“We must also account for the broader human impacts, including the mental health effects experienced by individuals who are denied abortion care or are compelled to continue pregnancies involving serious genetic defects,” Singh concluded.
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