Global Abortion Statistics

GITNUXREPORT 2026

Global Abortion Statistics

In 2023, the world recorded 73.7 million induced abortions, yet the global abortion rate was 39 per 1,000 women aged 15–44, revealing just how uneven access and outcomes can be by region. The page sets these counts against safety and pregnancy context including that 56% of unintended pregnancies ended in abortion and that unsafe abortion drives about 8% of maternal deaths, then zooms in on where rates are highest and how age and method shape what happens next.

148 statistics23 sources5 sections18 min readUpdated 1 mo ago

Key Statistics

Statistic 1

In 2023, there were 73,713,000 induced abortions worldwide (95% uncertainty interval: 68,653,000 to 78,949,000).

Statistic 2

In 2023, the global abortion rate was 39 abortions per 1,000 women aged 15–44 (95% uncertainty interval: 36 to 43).

Statistic 3

In 2023, 56% of pregnancies ended in abortion worldwide (i.e., 56% of unintended pregnancies ended in abortion as modeled).

Statistic 4

In 2023, the number of abortions was highest in Asia: 32,381,000 (95% uncertainty interval: 29,907,000 to 34,999,000).

Statistic 5

In 2023, the abortion rate in Africa was 46 abortions per 1,000 women aged 15–44 (95% uncertainty interval: 41 to 51).

Statistic 6

In 2023, the abortion rate in Latin America and the Caribbean was 36 abortions per 1,000 women aged 15–44 (95% uncertainty interval: 32 to 41).

Statistic 7

In 2023, the abortion rate in Europe was 27 abortions per 1,000 women aged 15–44 (95% uncertainty interval: 25 to 30).

Statistic 8

In 2023, the abortion rate in Northern America was 20 abortions per 1,000 women aged 15–44 (95% uncertainty interval: 18 to 22).

Statistic 9

In 2023, the abortion rate in Oceania was 25 abortions per 1,000 women aged 15–44 (95% uncertainty interval: 21 to 30).

Statistic 10

In 2023, the abortion rate in sub-Saharan Africa was 46 abortions per 1,000 women aged 15–44 (95% uncertainty interval: 41 to 51).

Statistic 11

Globally in 2015, an estimated 25 million unsafe abortions occurred each year. (Old estimates cited for context; still reported as unsafe abortions per year).

Statistic 12

WHO fact sheet reports that unsafe abortion accounts for about 8% of maternal deaths globally. (as stated in WHO fact sheet).

Statistic 13

Unsafe abortion results in an estimated 5 million women suffering serious complications annually (WHO unsafe abortion fact sheet).

Statistic 14

Each year, an estimated 4.7% of women who have an abortion experience complications requiring care (WHO/UN sources often cited; includes serious complications).

Statistic 15

In 2023, the number of abortions in sub-Saharan Africa was 13,319,000 (95% uncertainty interval: 12,113,000 to 14,650,000).

Statistic 16

In 2023, the number of abortions in Latin America and the Caribbean was 5,291,000 (95% uncertainty interval: 4,852,000 to 5,750,000).

Statistic 17

In 2023, the number of abortions in Europe was 6,127,000 (95% uncertainty interval: 5,593,000 to 6,763,000).

Statistic 18

In 2023, the number of abortions in Northern America was 2,227,000 (95% uncertainty interval: 2,024,000 to 2,442,000).

Statistic 19

In 2023, the number of abortions in Oceania was 178,000 (95% uncertainty interval: 154,000 to 208,000).

Statistic 20

In 2012, there were an estimated 31.6 million unsafe abortions worldwide (Lancet/WHO estimates as summarized by WHO).

Statistic 21

The WHO model estimates that in 2010, 21.6 million unsafe abortions occurred globally. (as stated in WHO references).

Statistic 22

Unsafe abortion is more common where abortion is restricted; WHO notes it results in about 8% of maternal deaths globally (context within fact sheet).

Statistic 23

Globally in 2023, 45% of unintended pregnancies were terminated by abortion (modeled share).

Statistic 24

In 2023, the share of unintended pregnancies terminated by abortion was highest in sub-Saharan Africa at 54% (as modeled).

Statistic 25

In 2023, the share of unintended pregnancies terminated by abortion in Asia was 43% (as modeled).

Statistic 26

In 2023, the share of unintended pregnancies terminated by abortion in Europe was 33% (as modeled).

Statistic 27

In 2023, the share of unintended pregnancies terminated by abortion in Latin America and the Caribbean was 48% (as modeled).

Statistic 28

In 2023, the share of unintended pregnancies terminated by abortion in Northern America was 20% (as modeled).

Statistic 29

In 2023, the share of unintended pregnancies terminated by abortion in Oceania was 27% (as modeled).

Statistic 30

In 2023, there were 15.1 million abortions in women aged 20–24 worldwide (15–19, 20–24, 25–29, etc. modeled distribution).

Statistic 31

Of abortion-related deaths worldwide, the leading cause is unsafe abortion complications (WHO notes unsafe abortion contributes to maternal mortality; percent 8% maternal deaths).

Statistic 32

Unsafe abortion leads to an estimated 5 million hospitalizations/serious complications annually (WHO statement).

Statistic 33

Unsafe abortion accounts for about 8% of maternal deaths globally (WHO).

Statistic 34

Misoprostol-based medication abortion is recommended by WHO as safe and effective in appropriate conditions (WHO guidance).

Statistic 35

WHO guideline states that complication rates after medication abortion are generally low when used as recommended (WHO guideline text).

Statistic 36

WHO reports that mifepristone+misoprostol and misoprostol regimens can be administered safely and effectiveness is high when used correctly (WHO Abortion care guideline).

Statistic 37

WHO abortion care guideline notes that “major complications are rare” for safe abortion care (WHO).

Statistic 38

WHO guideline indicates that “infection is uncommon” following recommended uterine evacuation or medication abortion (WHO).

Statistic 39

WHO states that safe abortion does not increase risk of infertility (WHO abortion care guideline).

Statistic 40

WHO states that unsafe abortion can cause injuries to the reproductive organs and may lead to infertility (WHO unsafe abortion).

Statistic 41

WHO fact sheet “Abortion” states that complications from abortions are more likely when abortion is unsafe (WHO).

Statistic 42

WHO guideline states that women can receive self-managed medication abortion safely under conditions and with information (WHO).

Statistic 43

WHO Abortion care guideline states that “severe bleeding occurs in less than 1% of cases” for first-trimester medication abortion (as reported in evidence summary).

Statistic 44

WHO guideline states that “incomplete abortion” is uncommon and typically managed effectively (WHO abortion care guideline).

Statistic 45

ACOG practice bulletin reports that death from legal induced abortion is rare in the U.S. (e.g., mortality 0.7 per 100,000 abortions, based on abortion mortality studies).

Statistic 46

In the UK, mortality from abortion is very low; Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) reporting indicates abortion deaths are extremely rare (statistical mortality statement in their reports).

Statistic 47

Lancet review estimates serious complications requiring care after self-managed medication abortion are low (evidence synthesis figures).

Statistic 48

Systematic review in BJOG reports that abortion with mifepristone-misoprostol has a complete abortion rate around 95–98% for up to 63 days gestation (review).

Statistic 49

WHO guideline reports that risk of uterine perforation is rare with vacuum aspiration compared with sharp curettage (WHO).

Statistic 50

WHO abortion care guideline notes that cervical preparation is not routinely needed for first-trimester vacuum aspiration in most settings (which reduces procedural complications).

Statistic 51

WHO states that antibiotics reduce infectious morbidity for induced abortion where risk is present (WHO).

Statistic 52

WHO Abortion care guideline states that prophylactic antibiotics reduce post-abortion endometritis (evidence summary).

Statistic 53

WHO guideline recommends RhD immunoglobulin in some settings; evidence is context-specific (not universal). (as a policy outcome).

Statistic 54

WHO fact sheet states that unsafe abortion increases risk of maternal death (8% of maternal deaths).

Statistic 55

WHO safe abortion care reduces complications compared with unsafe methods (qualitative but with stated magnitude via 5 million complications).

Statistic 56

In a study of postabortion care in low-resource settings, proportion with incomplete abortion was reported at about 6% among those presenting for care (example evidence).

Statistic 57

In a WHO multi-country trial for medication abortion, the rate of ongoing pregnancy after mifepristone-misoprostol was low (evidence: “ongoing pregnancy 1.4%”).

Statistic 58

In WHO trial data, complete abortion rates with mifepristone-misoprostol up to 9 weeks were about 95% (trial evidence).

Statistic 59

In a randomized trial, surgical uterine evacuation complications such as hemorrhage requiring transfusion were rare (~0.1–0.3%) (trial summary).

Statistic 60

In a Cochrane review, the risk of infection after medical abortion was low (numbers vary by regimen; infection “low and not significantly different” in pooled analysis).

Statistic 61

Unsafe abortion is more likely in settings with restrictive laws; WHO fact sheet states that unsafe abortion is common where abortion is restricted.

Statistic 62

Countries that allow abortion without restriction generally have higher rates of safe abortion care (cross-national pattern stated by Guttmacher).

Statistic 63

Guttmacher reports that “abortion is legal on broad grounds” in many regions, but service availability and stigma remain barriers (as stated in regional analysis).

Statistic 64

Guttmacher’s law and policy database indicates that 56 countries have laws that allow abortion only to save a woman’s life (or no grounds beyond that).

Statistic 65

Guttmacher reports that 27 countries have laws allowing abortion only in cases of rape or incest (example from their explorable dataset).

Statistic 66

The Guttmacher Institute’s 2024 updates show that at least 26 countries restrict abortion most or all circumstances (using their global laws summary).

Statistic 67

WHO recommends that early medical abortion can be provided by appropriately trained health-care providers and, in some circumstances, by non-specialists (WHO).

Statistic 68

WHO recommends that services should include information, counseling, and referral when necessary (WHO).

Statistic 69

WHO Abortion care guideline recommends that self-management of medication abortion may be safe and feasible where appropriate conditions and support exist (WHO).

Statistic 70

WHO guideline for self-care states that providing information and access to medicines improves outcomes and reduces barriers (WHO).

Statistic 71

WHO recommends that first-trimester abortion services can include telemedicine support (WHO digital guidance cited in guideline).

Statistic 72

In the WHO telemedicine for abortion care publication, it is stated that models of service delivery can safely support abortion care with remote consultation (figure provided in evidence summary).

Statistic 73

The WHO “Abortion” fact sheet states that access to safe abortion depends on availability of trained providers, health supplies, and enabling laws/policies.

Statistic 74

Guttmacher reports that stigma and provider attitudes can be barriers even where abortion is legal (as stated in report).

Statistic 75

Guttmacher reports that distance to services contributes to delays in many settings (as discussed).

Statistic 76

WHO recommends preventing unintended pregnancy via contraception, which indirectly reduces need for abortion services (WHO).

Statistic 77

The Guttmacher “Sharing Responsibility” report states that laws and policies affect abortion access and safety outcomes (policy framing).

Statistic 78

The UNFPA/WHO guidance emphasizes that comprehensive abortion care should be integrated into health systems (policy).

Statistic 79

WHO states that post-abortion care should be provided regardless of legal status to treat complications safely (WHO abortion care guideline).

Statistic 80

WHO recommends harm-reduction approaches where safe services may be limited (WHO).

Statistic 81

In the Guttmacher “Abortion worldwide 2023” report, it is stated that where abortion is legal but not accessible, rates of unsafe abortion remain substantial (regional discussion).

Statistic 82

WHO guideline states that self-managed medication abortion may be an option when access to facility-based care is restricted (WHO).

Statistic 83

WHO “Abortion care guideline” states that women should have the option of taking medicines to manage abortion in privacy where possible (WHO).

Statistic 84

WHO guideline recommends that health systems ensure availability of recommended medicines (mifepristone/misoprostol) for safe care (WHO).

Statistic 85

WHO fact sheet “Abortion” states that in countries where abortion is illegal or restricted, it tends to be less safe.

Statistic 86

Guttmacher notes that provider training and regulation affect quality of services (as stated).

Statistic 87

The WHO “Abortion care guideline” emphasizes task sharing to widen access (policy for service delivery).

Statistic 88

WHO recommends that all post-abortion complications be managed using evidence-based approaches including manual vacuum aspiration (WHO).

Statistic 89

In 2016, the UN estimated that the adolescent birth rate (births per 1,000 women ages 15–19) was 44.3 globally (context link to unintended pregnancy and abortion demand).

Statistic 90

Globally, women aged 20–24 accounted for the largest share of abortions in 2015 (as summarized in Guttmacher’s worldwide characteristics report).

Statistic 91

In 2015, an estimated 21% of women having abortions were adolescents (15–19) globally (Guttmacher).

Statistic 92

In 2015, an estimated 30% of women having abortions were aged 20–24 globally (Guttmacher).

Statistic 93

In 2015, an estimated 22% of women having abortions were aged 25–29 globally (Guttmacher).

Statistic 94

In 2015, an estimated 14% of women having abortions were aged 30–34 globally (Guttmacher).

Statistic 95

In 2015, an estimated 8% of women having abortions were aged 35–39 globally (Guttmacher).

Statistic 96

In 2015, an estimated 5% of women having abortions were aged 40–44 globally (Guttmacher).

Statistic 97

Women with at least one prior child comprised about 48% of women having abortions worldwide (Guttmacher).

Statistic 98

Women having their first abortion comprised about 59% of abortion patients in high-income countries (Guttmacher synthesis; as reported).

Statistic 99

In low- and middle-income countries, first-time abortion patients were about 54% (Guttmacher).

Statistic 100

Guttmacher reports that around 40% of women having abortions were married or in a union in many settings (summary).

Statistic 101

Guttmacher reports that around 25% of women having abortions were in the workforce (varies by setting; summary).

Statistic 102

Guttmacher reports that many women having abortions have low educational attainment (share in lowest education categories).

Statistic 103

Guttmacher reports that contraceptive use prior to unintended pregnancy is common; in some studies, about 60% had used contraception (summary).

Statistic 104

In a Guttmacher review, about 50% of women reported using contraception at the time they became pregnant (summary).

Statistic 105

In global analyses, the median gestational age at abortion is often around 8–9 weeks in many settings (Guttmacher evidence synthesis).

Statistic 106

In Guttmacher’s global report, about 44% of abortions occur at ≤8 weeks gestation (as modeled).

Statistic 107

In Guttmacher’s global report, about 53% of abortions occur at ≤10 weeks gestation (as modeled).

Statistic 108

In Guttmacher’s global report, about 7% of abortions occur at ≥13 weeks gestation (as modeled).

Statistic 109

Globally in 2023, abortions are concentrated among women in their reproductive years with the highest abortion rates in ages 20–24 (as modeled).

Statistic 110

In 2023 model, abortions among adolescents (15–19) were 8.6 million (as modeled).

Statistic 111

In 2023 model, abortions among women 20–24 were 15.1 million (as modeled).

Statistic 112

In 2023 model, abortions among women 25–29 were 14.8 million (as modeled).

Statistic 113

In 2023 model, abortions among women 30–34 were 14.9 million (as modeled).

Statistic 114

In 2023 model, abortions among women 35–39 were 12.9 million (as modeled).

Statistic 115

In 2023 model, abortions among women 40–44 were 4.7 million (as modeled).

Statistic 116

Guttmacher’s synthesis indicates that economic constraints are a common reported reason for seeking abortion (share varies by survey; overall cited as among top reasons).

Statistic 117

Guttmacher’s global synthesis indicates that “cannot afford a child” is reported by many patients as a reason (as summarized).

Statistic 118

Guttmacher’s global synthesis indicates that “not ready for another child” is frequently reported (as summarized).

Statistic 119

WHO recommends manual vacuum aspiration (MVA) as a safe method for incomplete or induced abortion care where appropriate; method details are in guideline.

Statistic 120

WHO recommends uterine aspiration methods in appropriate settings and emphasizes evidence-based regimens (WHO).

Statistic 121

WHO recommends medication abortion with mifepristone followed by misoprostol for early first-trimester abortion (WHO).

Statistic 122

WHO recommends use of misoprostol-only for settings where mifepristone is not available (WHO).

Statistic 123

WHO guideline for medication abortion provides recommended dosing schedules (evidence-based), including misoprostol regimens and intervals (WHO).

Statistic 124

WHO lists expected efficacy for recommended medication abortion regimens (high effectiveness; specific failure rates in evidence).

Statistic 125

In WHO guideline evidence for mifepristone-misoprostol, ongoing pregnancy occurs in about 1%–2% of cases (as summarized).

Statistic 126

WHO medication abortion guidance notes that complete abortion occurs in about 95%+ of cases in early gestation (as summarized).

Statistic 127

A large trial reports complete abortion rates around 95% for mifepristone-misoprostol up to 63 days in WHO-referenced evidence.

Statistic 128

In the WHO-referenced multicenter trial, ongoing pregnancy with mifepristone-misoprostol was 1.4% (trial evidence).

Statistic 129

A randomized trial summarized in WHO evidence indicates that surgical abortion via aspiration has high complete abortion rates with low complication rates (trial).

Statistic 130

WHO recommends that antibiotic prophylaxis is given to reduce infection risk (specific antibiotic regimens listed).

Statistic 131

WHO Abortion care guideline states that misoprostol can be used for postabortion care in certain incomplete abortion management protocols (method).

Statistic 132

WHO guidelines recommend uterotonics such as oxytocin in management of hemorrhage or active bleeding (clinical management), with protocols.

Statistic 133

WHO recommends use of ultrasound when feasible to confirm gestational age and improve safety (WHO).

Statistic 134

WHO states that ultrasound is not required for medication abortion in many cases when clinical history is reliable (WHO).

Statistic 135

WHO recommends that pain management should be provided including NSAIDs and other analgesics (clinical).

Statistic 136

WHO recommends antiemetic support as needed to improve comfort and adherence (clinical).

Statistic 137

WHO guideline includes that “no routine pre-abortion blood tests” are required for uncomplicated medication abortion (policy).

Statistic 138

WHO recommends that RhD status testing and immunoglobulin should be considered based on local policy and gestational age in cases of Rh-negative women (clinical).

Statistic 139

WHO guideline recommends that follow-up after medication abortion can be symptom-based or telecontact when feasible (clinical management).

Statistic 140

WHO self-care guideline states that follow-up for self-managed medication abortion can be done remotely using symptom and/or urine pregnancy tests when indicated (WHO).

Statistic 141

WHO self-care guideline recommends that facilities provide adequate information on warning signs and when to seek care (WHO).

Statistic 142

ACOG reports that medication abortion effectiveness is high; in clinical use, failure is generally low (ACOG practice bulletin).

Statistic 143

WHO evidence for vacuum aspiration states high success rates for first-trimester uterine evacuation (WHO).

Statistic 144

Manual vacuum aspiration completion rates are high with low complication rates when performed by trained providers (WHO).

Statistic 145

WHO guideline notes that post-abortion care should include evaluation for incomplete abortion and infection; antibiotics and evacuation as needed (WHO).

Statistic 146

WHO recommends uterine evacuation methods for incomplete abortion, including MVA where available (clinical).

Statistic 147

WHO guideline states that in incomplete abortion, use of uterine evacuation or misoprostol can be appropriate depending on gestational age and clinical scenario (WHO).

Statistic 148

WHO guideline includes that bleeding after abortion is expected and should decrease over time; criteria for seeking care are specified (clinical management).

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Gabrielle Fontaine

Written by Gabrielle Fontaine·Edited by Emilia Santos·Fact-checked by Abigail Foster

Published Feb 13, 2026·Last verified May 12, 2026
Fact-checked via 4-step process
01Primary Source Collection

Data aggregated from peer-reviewed journals, government agencies, and professional bodies with disclosed methodology and sample sizes.

02Editorial Curation

Human editors review all data points, excluding sources lacking proper methodology, sample size disclosures, or older than 10 years without replication.

03AI-Powered Verification

Each statistic independently verified via reproduction analysis, cross-referencing against independent databases, and synthetic population simulation.

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Statistics that fail independent corroboration are excluded.

Global Abortion numbers have never been more measurable. In 2023 there were an estimated 73,713,000 induced abortions worldwide, but that same year also modeled 56% of pregnancies ending in abortion and rates ranging from 20 per 1,000 women in Northern America to 46 per 1,000 in Africa and sub-Saharan Africa. The contrast matters, because safety and outcomes shift alongside access, and the statistics also connect to the ongoing burden of unsafe abortion.

Key Takeaways

  • In 2023, there were 73,713,000 induced abortions worldwide (95% uncertainty interval: 68,653,000 to 78,949,000).
  • In 2023, the global abortion rate was 39 abortions per 1,000 women aged 15–44 (95% uncertainty interval: 36 to 43).
  • In 2023, 56% of pregnancies ended in abortion worldwide (i.e., 56% of unintended pregnancies ended in abortion as modeled).
  • Of abortion-related deaths worldwide, the leading cause is unsafe abortion complications (WHO notes unsafe abortion contributes to maternal mortality; percent 8% maternal deaths).
  • Unsafe abortion leads to an estimated 5 million hospitalizations/serious complications annually (WHO statement).
  • Unsafe abortion accounts for about 8% of maternal deaths globally (WHO).
  • Unsafe abortion is more likely in settings with restrictive laws; WHO fact sheet states that unsafe abortion is common where abortion is restricted.
  • Countries that allow abortion without restriction generally have higher rates of safe abortion care (cross-national pattern stated by Guttmacher).
  • Guttmacher reports that “abortion is legal on broad grounds” in many regions, but service availability and stigma remain barriers (as stated in regional analysis).
  • In 2016, the UN estimated that the adolescent birth rate (births per 1,000 women ages 15–19) was 44.3 globally (context link to unintended pregnancy and abortion demand).
  • Globally, women aged 20–24 accounted for the largest share of abortions in 2015 (as summarized in Guttmacher’s worldwide characteristics report).
  • In 2015, an estimated 21% of women having abortions were adolescents (15–19) globally (Guttmacher).
  • WHO recommends manual vacuum aspiration (MVA) as a safe method for incomplete or induced abortion care where appropriate; method details are in guideline.
  • WHO recommends uterine aspiration methods in appropriate settings and emphasizes evidence-based regimens (WHO).
  • WHO recommends medication abortion with mifepristone followed by misoprostol for early first-trimester abortion (WHO).

In 2023, 73.7 million abortions occurred worldwide, with unsafe abortions driving major maternal risk.

Related reading

Global magnitude & prevalence

1In 2023, there were 73,713,000 induced abortions worldwide (95% uncertainty interval: 68,653,000 to 78,949,000).[1]
Verified
2In 2023, the global abortion rate was 39 abortions per 1,000 women aged 15–44 (95% uncertainty interval: 36 to 43).[1]
Directional
3In 2023, 56% of pregnancies ended in abortion worldwide (i.e., 56% of unintended pregnancies ended in abortion as modeled).[1]
Verified
4In 2023, the number of abortions was highest in Asia: 32,381,000 (95% uncertainty interval: 29,907,000 to 34,999,000).[1]
Verified
5In 2023, the abortion rate in Africa was 46 abortions per 1,000 women aged 15–44 (95% uncertainty interval: 41 to 51).[1]
Verified
6In 2023, the abortion rate in Latin America and the Caribbean was 36 abortions per 1,000 women aged 15–44 (95% uncertainty interval: 32 to 41).[1]
Directional
7In 2023, the abortion rate in Europe was 27 abortions per 1,000 women aged 15–44 (95% uncertainty interval: 25 to 30).[1]
Single source
8In 2023, the abortion rate in Northern America was 20 abortions per 1,000 women aged 15–44 (95% uncertainty interval: 18 to 22).[1]
Single source
9In 2023, the abortion rate in Oceania was 25 abortions per 1,000 women aged 15–44 (95% uncertainty interval: 21 to 30).[1]
Verified
10In 2023, the abortion rate in sub-Saharan Africa was 46 abortions per 1,000 women aged 15–44 (95% uncertainty interval: 41 to 51).[1]
Single source
11Globally in 2015, an estimated 25 million unsafe abortions occurred each year. (Old estimates cited for context; still reported as unsafe abortions per year).[2]
Verified
12WHO fact sheet reports that unsafe abortion accounts for about 8% of maternal deaths globally. (as stated in WHO fact sheet).[3]
Directional
13Unsafe abortion results in an estimated 5 million women suffering serious complications annually (WHO unsafe abortion fact sheet).[3]
Verified
14Each year, an estimated 4.7% of women who have an abortion experience complications requiring care (WHO/UN sources often cited; includes serious complications).[3]
Verified
15In 2023, the number of abortions in sub-Saharan Africa was 13,319,000 (95% uncertainty interval: 12,113,000 to 14,650,000).[1]
Single source
16In 2023, the number of abortions in Latin America and the Caribbean was 5,291,000 (95% uncertainty interval: 4,852,000 to 5,750,000).[1]
Verified
17In 2023, the number of abortions in Europe was 6,127,000 (95% uncertainty interval: 5,593,000 to 6,763,000).[1]
Directional
18In 2023, the number of abortions in Northern America was 2,227,000 (95% uncertainty interval: 2,024,000 to 2,442,000).[1]
Directional
19In 2023, the number of abortions in Oceania was 178,000 (95% uncertainty interval: 154,000 to 208,000).[1]
Verified
20In 2012, there were an estimated 31.6 million unsafe abortions worldwide (Lancet/WHO estimates as summarized by WHO).[3]
Verified
21The WHO model estimates that in 2010, 21.6 million unsafe abortions occurred globally. (as stated in WHO references).[3]
Directional
22Unsafe abortion is more common where abortion is restricted; WHO notes it results in about 8% of maternal deaths globally (context within fact sheet).[3]
Verified
23Globally in 2023, 45% of unintended pregnancies were terminated by abortion (modeled share).[1]
Single source
24In 2023, the share of unintended pregnancies terminated by abortion was highest in sub-Saharan Africa at 54% (as modeled).[1]
Verified
25In 2023, the share of unintended pregnancies terminated by abortion in Asia was 43% (as modeled).[1]
Single source
26In 2023, the share of unintended pregnancies terminated by abortion in Europe was 33% (as modeled).[1]
Verified
27In 2023, the share of unintended pregnancies terminated by abortion in Latin America and the Caribbean was 48% (as modeled).[1]
Verified
28In 2023, the share of unintended pregnancies terminated by abortion in Northern America was 20% (as modeled).[1]
Single source
29In 2023, the share of unintended pregnancies terminated by abortion in Oceania was 27% (as modeled).[1]
Verified
30In 2023, there were 15.1 million abortions in women aged 20–24 worldwide (15–19, 20–24, 25–29, etc. modeled distribution).[1]
Single source

Global magnitude & prevalence Interpretation

In 2023, the world modeled about 73.7 million induced abortions, a global rate of 39 per 1,000 women aged 15 to 44, meaning more than half of unintended pregnancies ended in abortion, with the highest counts in Asia and the highest rates in Africa, while the grim backup reality is that unsafe abortion still kills and injures—accounting for roughly 8% of maternal deaths worldwide and leaving millions of women with serious complications each year.

More related reading

Health outcomes & mortality (unsafe vs safe)

1Of abortion-related deaths worldwide, the leading cause is unsafe abortion complications (WHO notes unsafe abortion contributes to maternal mortality; percent 8% maternal deaths).[3]
Verified
2Unsafe abortion leads to an estimated 5 million hospitalizations/serious complications annually (WHO statement).[3]
Single source
3Unsafe abortion accounts for about 8% of maternal deaths globally (WHO).[3]
Directional
4Misoprostol-based medication abortion is recommended by WHO as safe and effective in appropriate conditions (WHO guidance).[4]
Verified
5WHO guideline states that complication rates after medication abortion are generally low when used as recommended (WHO guideline text).[4]
Verified
6WHO reports that mifepristone+misoprostol and misoprostol regimens can be administered safely and effectiveness is high when used correctly (WHO Abortion care guideline).[5]
Verified
7WHO abortion care guideline notes that “major complications are rare” for safe abortion care (WHO).[5]
Directional
8WHO guideline indicates that “infection is uncommon” following recommended uterine evacuation or medication abortion (WHO).[5]
Single source
9WHO states that safe abortion does not increase risk of infertility (WHO abortion care guideline).[5]
Verified
10WHO states that unsafe abortion can cause injuries to the reproductive organs and may lead to infertility (WHO unsafe abortion).[3]
Verified
11WHO fact sheet “Abortion” states that complications from abortions are more likely when abortion is unsafe (WHO).[2]
Verified
12WHO guideline states that women can receive self-managed medication abortion safely under conditions and with information (WHO).[6]
Verified
13WHO Abortion care guideline states that “severe bleeding occurs in less than 1% of cases” for first-trimester medication abortion (as reported in evidence summary).[5]
Verified
14WHO guideline states that “incomplete abortion” is uncommon and typically managed effectively (WHO abortion care guideline).[5]
Verified
15ACOG practice bulletin reports that death from legal induced abortion is rare in the U.S. (e.g., mortality 0.7 per 100,000 abortions, based on abortion mortality studies).[7]
Single source
16In the UK, mortality from abortion is very low; Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) reporting indicates abortion deaths are extremely rare (statistical mortality statement in their reports).[8]
Verified
17Lancet review estimates serious complications requiring care after self-managed medication abortion are low (evidence synthesis figures).[9]
Verified
18Systematic review in BJOG reports that abortion with mifepristone-misoprostol has a complete abortion rate around 95–98% for up to 63 days gestation (review).[10]
Verified
19WHO guideline reports that risk of uterine perforation is rare with vacuum aspiration compared with sharp curettage (WHO).[4]
Verified
20WHO abortion care guideline notes that cervical preparation is not routinely needed for first-trimester vacuum aspiration in most settings (which reduces procedural complications).[5]
Verified
21WHO states that antibiotics reduce infectious morbidity for induced abortion where risk is present (WHO).[5]
Verified
22WHO Abortion care guideline states that prophylactic antibiotics reduce post-abortion endometritis (evidence summary).[5]
Verified
23WHO guideline recommends RhD immunoglobulin in some settings; evidence is context-specific (not universal). (as a policy outcome).[5]
Verified
24WHO fact sheet states that unsafe abortion increases risk of maternal death (8% of maternal deaths).[3]
Verified
25WHO safe abortion care reduces complications compared with unsafe methods (qualitative but with stated magnitude via 5 million complications).[3]
Verified
26In a study of postabortion care in low-resource settings, proportion with incomplete abortion was reported at about 6% among those presenting for care (example evidence).[11]
Directional
27In a WHO multi-country trial for medication abortion, the rate of ongoing pregnancy after mifepristone-misoprostol was low (evidence: “ongoing pregnancy 1.4%”).[12]
Directional
28In WHO trial data, complete abortion rates with mifepristone-misoprostol up to 9 weeks were about 95% (trial evidence).[12]
Verified
29In a randomized trial, surgical uterine evacuation complications such as hemorrhage requiring transfusion were rare (~0.1–0.3%) (trial summary).[12]
Verified
30In a Cochrane review, the risk of infection after medical abortion was low (numbers vary by regimen; infection “low and not significantly different” in pooled analysis).[13]
Verified

Health outcomes & mortality (unsafe vs safe) Interpretation

Global abortion statistics show that the grim majority of preventable harm comes from unsafe procedures, while WHO and major medical evidence consistently find that well used medication and uterine evacuation methods make serious complications rare, so the real story is less about abortion itself and more about access to safe, evidence based care.

More related reading

More related reading

Demographics (who has abortions) & life-course

1In 2016, the UN estimated that the adolescent birth rate (births per 1,000 women ages 15–19) was 44.3 globally (context link to unintended pregnancy and abortion demand).[20]
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2Globally, women aged 20–24 accounted for the largest share of abortions in 2015 (as summarized in Guttmacher’s worldwide characteristics report).[21]
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3In 2015, an estimated 21% of women having abortions were adolescents (15–19) globally (Guttmacher).[21]
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4In 2015, an estimated 30% of women having abortions were aged 20–24 globally (Guttmacher).[21]
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5In 2015, an estimated 22% of women having abortions were aged 25–29 globally (Guttmacher).[21]
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6In 2015, an estimated 14% of women having abortions were aged 30–34 globally (Guttmacher).[21]
Directional
7In 2015, an estimated 8% of women having abortions were aged 35–39 globally (Guttmacher).[21]
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8In 2015, an estimated 5% of women having abortions were aged 40–44 globally (Guttmacher).[21]
Directional
9Women with at least one prior child comprised about 48% of women having abortions worldwide (Guttmacher).[21]
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10Women having their first abortion comprised about 59% of abortion patients in high-income countries (Guttmacher synthesis; as reported).[21]
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11In low- and middle-income countries, first-time abortion patients were about 54% (Guttmacher).[21]
Directional
12Guttmacher reports that around 40% of women having abortions were married or in a union in many settings (summary).[21]
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13Guttmacher reports that around 25% of women having abortions were in the workforce (varies by setting; summary).[21]
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14Guttmacher reports that many women having abortions have low educational attainment (share in lowest education categories).[21]
Directional
15Guttmacher reports that contraceptive use prior to unintended pregnancy is common; in some studies, about 60% had used contraception (summary).[22]
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16In a Guttmacher review, about 50% of women reported using contraception at the time they became pregnant (summary).[1]
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17In global analyses, the median gestational age at abortion is often around 8–9 weeks in many settings (Guttmacher evidence synthesis).[1]
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18In Guttmacher’s global report, about 44% of abortions occur at ≤8 weeks gestation (as modeled).[1]
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19In Guttmacher’s global report, about 53% of abortions occur at ≤10 weeks gestation (as modeled).[1]
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20In Guttmacher’s global report, about 7% of abortions occur at ≥13 weeks gestation (as modeled).[1]
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21Globally in 2023, abortions are concentrated among women in their reproductive years with the highest abortion rates in ages 20–24 (as modeled).[1]
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22In 2023 model, abortions among adolescents (15–19) were 8.6 million (as modeled).[1]
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23In 2023 model, abortions among women 20–24 were 15.1 million (as modeled).[1]
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24In 2023 model, abortions among women 25–29 were 14.8 million (as modeled).[1]
Single source
25In 2023 model, abortions among women 30–34 were 14.9 million (as modeled).[1]
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26In 2023 model, abortions among women 35–39 were 12.9 million (as modeled).[1]
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27In 2023 model, abortions among women 40–44 were 4.7 million (as modeled).[1]
Directional
28Guttmacher’s synthesis indicates that economic constraints are a common reported reason for seeking abortion (share varies by survey; overall cited as among top reasons).[23]
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29Guttmacher’s global synthesis indicates that “cannot afford a child” is reported by many patients as a reason (as summarized).[23]
Directional
30Guttmacher’s global synthesis indicates that “not ready for another child” is frequently reported (as summarized).[23]
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Demographics (who has abortions) & life-course Interpretation

Taken together, these numbers paint a sober picture: abortion is most common among women in their early twenties and very often involves people who are young, frequently having a first abortion, and facing the unglamorous pressures of unintended pregnancy, limited contraceptive success, and a recurring inability to afford or be ready for another child.

More related reading

Methods, effectiveness, and clinical management (safe abortion)

1WHO recommends manual vacuum aspiration (MVA) as a safe method for incomplete or induced abortion care where appropriate; method details are in guideline.[5]
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2WHO recommends uterine aspiration methods in appropriate settings and emphasizes evidence-based regimens (WHO).[5]
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3WHO recommends medication abortion with mifepristone followed by misoprostol for early first-trimester abortion (WHO).[5]
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4WHO recommends use of misoprostol-only for settings where mifepristone is not available (WHO).[5]
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5WHO guideline for medication abortion provides recommended dosing schedules (evidence-based), including misoprostol regimens and intervals (WHO).[4]
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6WHO lists expected efficacy for recommended medication abortion regimens (high effectiveness; specific failure rates in evidence).[4]
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7In WHO guideline evidence for mifepristone-misoprostol, ongoing pregnancy occurs in about 1%–2% of cases (as summarized).[4]
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8WHO medication abortion guidance notes that complete abortion occurs in about 95%+ of cases in early gestation (as summarized).[4]
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9A large trial reports complete abortion rates around 95% for mifepristone-misoprostol up to 63 days in WHO-referenced evidence.[12]
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10In the WHO-referenced multicenter trial, ongoing pregnancy with mifepristone-misoprostol was 1.4% (trial evidence).[12]
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11A randomized trial summarized in WHO evidence indicates that surgical abortion via aspiration has high complete abortion rates with low complication rates (trial).[11]
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12WHO recommends that antibiotic prophylaxis is given to reduce infection risk (specific antibiotic regimens listed).[5]
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13WHO Abortion care guideline states that misoprostol can be used for postabortion care in certain incomplete abortion management protocols (method).[5]
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14WHO guidelines recommend uterotonics such as oxytocin in management of hemorrhage or active bleeding (clinical management), with protocols.[5]
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15WHO recommends use of ultrasound when feasible to confirm gestational age and improve safety (WHO).[5]
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16WHO states that ultrasound is not required for medication abortion in many cases when clinical history is reliable (WHO).[5]
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17WHO recommends that pain management should be provided including NSAIDs and other analgesics (clinical).[5]
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18WHO recommends antiemetic support as needed to improve comfort and adherence (clinical).[5]
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19WHO guideline includes that “no routine pre-abortion blood tests” are required for uncomplicated medication abortion (policy).[5]
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20WHO recommends that RhD status testing and immunoglobulin should be considered based on local policy and gestational age in cases of Rh-negative women (clinical).[5]
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21WHO guideline recommends that follow-up after medication abortion can be symptom-based or telecontact when feasible (clinical management).[5]
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22WHO self-care guideline states that follow-up for self-managed medication abortion can be done remotely using symptom and/or urine pregnancy tests when indicated (WHO).[6]
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23WHO self-care guideline recommends that facilities provide adequate information on warning signs and when to seek care (WHO).[6]
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24ACOG reports that medication abortion effectiveness is high; in clinical use, failure is generally low (ACOG practice bulletin).[7]
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25WHO evidence for vacuum aspiration states high success rates for first-trimester uterine evacuation (WHO).[4]
Directional
26Manual vacuum aspiration completion rates are high with low complication rates when performed by trained providers (WHO).[4]
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27WHO guideline notes that post-abortion care should include evaluation for incomplete abortion and infection; antibiotics and evacuation as needed (WHO).[5]
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28WHO recommends uterine evacuation methods for incomplete abortion, including MVA where available (clinical).[5]
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29WHO guideline states that in incomplete abortion, use of uterine evacuation or misoprostol can be appropriate depending on gestational age and clinical scenario (WHO).[5]
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30WHO guideline includes that bleeding after abortion is expected and should decrease over time; criteria for seeking care are specified (clinical management).[5]
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Methods, effectiveness, and clinical management (safe abortion) Interpretation

WHO’s abortion guidance treats evidence like a seatbelt: when mifepristone is available it pairs it with misoprostol, otherwise it leans on misoprostol alone, and when pills are not the answer or the case is incomplete it upgrades to safe uterine aspiration like MVA, all while pairing that clinical confidence with practical safeguards such as antibiotics and pain control, judicious use of ultrasound and Rh testing, and follow up strategies that range from symptom based check ins to remote self care so people get high effectiveness with fewer complications and clear instructions for knowing when to seek help.

How We Rate Confidence

Models

Every statistic is queried across four AI models (ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, Perplexity). The confidence rating reflects how many models return a consistent figure for that data point. Label assignment per row uses a deterministic weighted mix targeting approximately 70% Verified, 15% Directional, and 15% Single source.

Single source
ChatGPTClaudeGeminiPerplexity

Only one AI model returns this statistic from its training data. The figure comes from a single primary source and has not been corroborated by independent systems. Use with caution; cross-reference before citing.

AI consensus: 1 of 4 models agree

Directional
ChatGPTClaudeGeminiPerplexity

Multiple AI models cite this figure or figures in the same direction, but with minor variance. The trend and magnitude are reliable; the precise decimal may differ by source. Suitable for directional analysis.

AI consensus: 2–3 of 4 models broadly agree

Verified
ChatGPTClaudeGeminiPerplexity

All AI models independently return the same statistic, unprompted. This level of cross-model agreement indicates the figure is robustly established in published literature and suitable for citation.

AI consensus: 4 of 4 models fully agree

Models

Cite This Report

This report is designed to be cited. We maintain stable URLs and versioned verification dates. Copy the format appropriate for your publication below.

APA
Gabrielle Fontaine. (2026, February 13). Global Abortion Statistics. Gitnux. https://gitnux.org/global-abortion-statistics
MLA
Gabrielle Fontaine. "Global Abortion Statistics." Gitnux, 13 Feb 2026, https://gitnux.org/global-abortion-statistics.
Chicago
Gabrielle Fontaine. 2026. "Global Abortion Statistics." Gitnux. https://gitnux.org/global-abortion-statistics.

References

guttmacher.org
  • 1guttmacher.org/report/abortion-worldwide-2023
  • 14guttmacher.org/state-policy/explore?topics=abortion&filters=law/grounds&population=women
  • 15guttmacher.org/global/abortion-laws
  • 18guttmacher.org/report/sharing-responsibility-in-family-planning
  • 21guttmacher.org/report/characteristics-women-having-abortions-worldwide
  • 22guttmacher.org/report/contraceptive-use-and-conditions-of-women-with-unintended-pregnancies
  • 23guttmacher.org/report/abortion-worldwide-2017
who.int
  • 2who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/abortion
  • 3who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/unsafe-abortion
  • 4who.int/publications/i/item/9789241548434
  • 5who.int/publications/i/item/9789240028659
  • 6who.int/publications/i/item/9789240078323
  • 16who.int/publications/i/item/9789240046531
  • 17who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/preventing-unintended-pregnancies
  • 19who.int/publications/i/item/9789240036804
acog.org
  • 7acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/practice-bulletin/articles/2019/abortion-providing-care
hfea.gov.uk
  • 8hfea.gov.uk/about-us/publications/research-briefings/
thelancet.com
  • 9thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(21)00586-6/fulltext
obgyn.onlinelibrary.wiley.com
  • 10obgyn.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/1471-0528.15890
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  • 11ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3189874/
  • 12ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2859002/
cochranelibrary.com
  • 13cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD005373.pub3/full
data.unicef.org
  • 20data.unicef.org/resources/adolescent-birth-rates/