A recent study published in JAMA Pediatrics reveals a concerning trend in infant mortality rates following the implementation of a 2021 law in Texas that restricted abortion access. The study compared infant deaths in Texas between 2018 and 2022 with 28 other states as comparison groups.

The law in question, commonly known as SB 8, prohibits abortions after the detection of a fetal heartbeat, usually around six weeks into pregnancy. As a result, abortion access in Texas has become significantly limited, with the procedure only permitted in cases involving certain medical exemptions following the fall of Roe vs Wade.

The study, conducted by researchers including Suzanne Bell, a public health professor at Johns Hopkins, is one of the first to empirically examine the effects of abortion laws that restrict the procedure before the fetus is viable. Bell emphasizes that the findings provide valuable insights into the potential impacts that similar abortion bans in other states may have.

The research indicates that infant deaths and neonatal deaths, which are deaths occurring within the first 28 days of life, increased following the implementation of SB 8. Notably, the study notes a specific rise in deaths caused by congenital anomalies, which increased by 22.9%. Additionally, accidental deaths also showed an increase during this period.

Bell highlights that the number of infant deaths in Texas has exceeded expectations, particularly when considering the increase in live births associated with SB 8. In 2022 alone, just under 10,000 additional live births were associated with the law. However, rather than the expected 53 additional infant deaths based on pre-law mortality rates, Texas witnessed an alarming additional 255 infant deaths.

The study further emphasizes that certain pregnancies at an increased risk of infant mortality, especially those involving congenital anomalies, were more likely to be affected by the law. It is important to note that many life-threatening congenital malformations are not diagnosed until later in the first trimester, long after a fetal heartbeat is detectable and abortions would be prohibited under SB 8.

The impact of the law on families and medical costs associated with care is significant, according to Bell. Others, however, argue that the lives of babies diagnosed with fatal or life-limiting disabilities are valuable and should be treated with dignity. Amy O'Donnell, communications director for the Texas Alliance for Life, asserts that birth rates have increased in Texas since the passage of abortion bans and therefore expects infant deaths to increase as well.

The study's findings shed light on the potential consequences of restrictive abortion laws and highlight the far-reaching implications they can have on infant mortality rates. This research serves as a critical contribution to the ongoing debate surrounding abortion access and its impact on maternal and child health.

As more states consider or introduce similar abortion restrictions, these findings underscore the importance of evidence-based policymaking and a comprehensive understanding of the potential effects such laws may have on public health.