Pennsylvania Abortions Decline, But More Women Injured

State   |   Steven Ertelt   |   Jan 14, 2013   |   7:53PM   |   Harrisburg, PA

While abortions in Pennsylvania declined for the third year in a row in 2011, complications as a result of the procedure increased sharply, according to statistics released by the Pennsylvania Department of Health.

Statistics show 498 (1.4 percent) fewer abortions in 2011 compared to 2010. In total, there were 36,280 abortions performed in Pennsylvania in 2011. The 2011 total represents a 44.8 percent decrease from the all-time high of 65,777 recorded in 1980.

However, the year brought a disturbing 78.7 percent increase in the number of complications from abortions. The 109 reported complications included bleeding, infections and “retained products of conception” including fetal parts, according to the department.

“As these statistics show, abortion not only destroys a preborn child’s life but also puts its mother’s health at risk,” said Micaiah Bilger, education coordinator at the Pennsylvania Pro-Life Federation.

The year 2011 brought to light the gristly practices of Philadelphia abortionist Kermit Gosnell, who is charged with the murders of a woman and seven newborn babies. In response to the tragedy, Pennsylvania implemented Act 122, which requires abortion facilities to be licensed as outpatient surgical facilities and to submit to unannounced inspections.

“Every life, from the moment of conception to natural death – and everywhere in between, deserves to be protected,” Bilger said.

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To access the Pa. Department of Health report on abortion, visit: https://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/health_statistics/14136/birth%2C_death_and_other_vital_statistics/590070