Shelby County abortions fall by nearly 37 percent
MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) – The number of abortions performed in Shelby County has fallen sharply during the past five years.
The Commercial Appeal reports (http://memne.ws/2bUCIcZ) that abortions in the county declined by 36.6 percent between 2011 and 2014, the most recent year for which figures are available through the Tennessee Department of Health.
The reasons for the decline are disputed among anti-abortion and pro-abortion groups. However, both sides agree that increased access to contraceptives like implants and intrauterine devices has been a factor.
Anti-abortion groups say that laws restricting abortion, along with programs aimed at persuading women to avoid the procedure, have contributed to the decline.
Local providers of contraception, like Planned Parenthood, say many women are getting contraceptives through the Affordable Care Act.
