Abortions have increased continuously since the first quarter of 2022 - in the first quarter of 2023 by as much as 6.8 % compared to the same quarter of the previous year. This was reported by the Federal Statistical Office (Destatis).
However, no reliable statements can be made about the motives. There are only assumptions. For example, it is assumed that current crises such as climate change, inflation and the war in Ukraine could also play a role. Furthermore, according to observations by gynaecologists, the increase in abortions could, for example, be influenced by a possible increase in scepticism, particularly among younger women, towards hormonal contraceptive methods. The Professional Association of Gynaecologists (Berufsverband der Frauenärzte e.V.) has noticed a change in awareness here, which has also been confirmed by the Federal Centre for Health Education (BZgA) for years: For example, the pill is declining as a contraceptive method in all age groups. More and more women of childbearing age are increasingly concerned about the negative effects of hormonal methods on their bodies and minds. This is apparently confirmed by many women who report negative personal experiences with hormonal contraceptives on social media.
TIP: I often come across women who only rely on the data from apps when it comes to contraception. However, without taking into account the individual cycle and hormonal situation (e.g. breastfeeding), this cannot provide sufficient security. Make sure you seek professional advice from your gynaecologist if you are faced with the question of which contraceptive method is best for you. This cannot be said in general terms, but always requires an individual assessment, which includes a detailed medical history and a medical examination of possible risk factors. Non-hormonal contraceptives are also safe if they are used appropriately for the individual.
