After nearly a year’s delay, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) has released a report regarding induced abortion numbers in 2020.
The precedent for reporting abortion statistics was established under Wisconsin Statute 69.186, which mandates DHS to publish an annual demographic summary of the information reported.
Transparency in regard to induced abortion in Wisconsin is vital for policymakers, and the public at large. It allows the public to understand why, when, and how women in Wisconsin are obtaining abortions, and craft policy to respond to these needs.
While reporting requirements must be further strengthened in Wisconsin, the 2020 abortion numbers shed light on important changes.
The total number of induced abortions decreased 1.2% in 2020 from 2019, from 6,511 to 6,430.
In response to the recent DHS report Gracie Skogman, legislative director at Wisconsin Right to Life, stated, “While even one abortion is too many, we are heartened by the decrease in Wisconsin numbers. The message of the pro-life movement is one of hope and life-saving change, and we are encouraged to see more women in Wisconsin choosing life for their preborn children.
“This decrease in number is represents the vital importance of programs such as the targeted messaging Wisconsin Right to Life conducts through the Veritas Society, which directs women on college campuses and at abortion facilities to pro-life resources and pregnancy centers. The mission of the Veritas Society is to reach women with a message of hope in their moments of need, and offer them hope and the option of life-affirming care.
“Additionally, Wisconsin Right to Life leads outreach to students and college campuses, providing vital information on the reality of abortion and the loving options available at pregnancy resource centers. These efforts to help women will continue until abortion becomes an unthinkable option.”
