More women sought permanent contraception after Dobbs decision.

Women seeking tubal ligations rose 51% after the Dobbs decision, with more younger and childless women opting for the procedure.

Why it matters

  • The study shows a direct impact of political decisions on reproductive health choices.
  • It highlights how changes in abortion laws can influence contraceptive decisions.

By the numbers

  • 51% increase in tubal ligations.
  • 445 procedures before Dobbs, 674 after.
  • 10.2% to 21.2% increase in childless women seeking the procedure.
  • 47% cited political climate as a reason.

The big picture

  • The Dobbs decision had a significant effect on reproductive health decisions.
  • Younger women and those without children were more likely to seek permanent contraception.
  • The trend was observed even in states with protective abortion laws.

What they're saying

  • Comments reflect personal anecdotes and concerns about reproductive rights.
  • There's interest in the full study, as seen in the linked peer-reviewed article.

Caveats

  • The study is limited to four states and academic medical centers.
  • May not represent the entire US population or all healthcare settings.

What’s next

  • Further research could explore broader geographic areas and different healthcare settings.
  • Monitoring long-term trends in reproductive health decisions post-Dobbs.