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Fact check: What are the most common reasons for elective abortions in the US?

Checked on September 12, 2025

1. Summary of the results

The most common reasons for elective abortions in the US, as reported by various studies, include financial constraints (40%) [1], timing (36%) [1], and partner-related reasons (31%) [1]. Another study found that the most common reasons were having a child would interfere with a woman's education, work, or ability to care for dependents (74%) and that she could not afford a baby now (73%) [2]. Additionally, some women reported the need to focus on other children (29%) [1] and not wanting to be a single mother or having relationship problems (48%) [2] as reasons for seeking an abortion. It is also important to note that many women reported multiple reasons for seeking an abortion, with 64% reporting multiple themes [1].

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

Some studies highlight the complexity and multifaceted nature of women's reasons for having abortions, which cannot be reduced to a single factor or motivation [3]. Other analyses emphasize the importance of addressing disparities in abortion rates among different racial and socioeconomic groups [4], and the need to consider access to family planning and economic opportunities [4] when understanding the reasons for elective abortions. Furthermore, some sources provide an overview of abortion trends and statistics in the US, but do not specifically address the reasons for elective abortions [5] [6].

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original statement may be too narrow in its focus, as it does not account for the complexity and multifaceted nature of women's reasons for having abortions [3]. Additionally, the statement may overlook the importance of addressing disparities in abortion rates [4] and access to family planning and economic opportunities [4]. Some studies may benefit from a more nuanced understanding of the reasons for elective abortions, taking into account the various factors that influence a woman's decision to have an abortion [1] [2]. The sources that provide an overview of abortion trends and statistics in the US, but do not specifically address the reasons for elective abortions, may benefit from a more in-depth analysis of the reasons for elective abortions [5] [6].

Want to dive deeper?
What are the most common reasons women give for having an abortion in the US?
How do US abortion rates compare to other developed countries?
What role does socioeconomic status play in elective abortion decisions in the US?
Can access to birth control affect elective abortion rates in the US?
How have US abortion laws impacted the number of elective abortions performed?