Abortion in the Netherlands. Numbers are rising . What's the reason ?

THE NUMBER OF ABORTIONS IN THE NETHERLANDS HAS BEEN RISING FOR SEVERAL YEARS. WHY IS THAT?

BACKGROUND

Why is the number of abortions increasing? NRC posed this sensitive question to eight experts. “We often hear: just look at the world around you. Is this really a place to bring a child into?”

What’s Happening?

For nearly two decades, the number of abortions in the Netherlands hovered between 30,000 and 33,000 per year. But in recent years, those numbers have started to climb. In 2022, there were 35,606 abortions; in 2023, that rose to 39,332.

Why the Increase?

Researchers and healthcare professionals say there is no single reason. Multiple complex factors contribute:

1. Earlier Pregnancy Detection

Modern pregnancy tests are more accurate and widely available.

Apps help women track their cycles closely.

Many pregnancies that would have naturally ended in a miscarriage are now detected early and terminated sooner.

2. Changes in Abortion Practices

Clinics increasingly offer abortions very early in pregnancy — even when the pregnancy isn’t yet visible on an ultrasound.

Between 2018 and 2023, the number of abortions up to six weeks increased by almost 80%.

3. Different Approaches to Contraception

Some women are opting for ‘natural’ contraception methods (tracking fertile days) rather than hormonal contraceptives due to side effects.

These methods are less reliable in practice.

4. Social and Economic Factors

Rising housing costs.

Worries about the war in Ukraine.

Concerns about raising a child in today’s world.

5. Changes in the Law

Since January 2023, the mandatory five-day waiting period before an abortion has been abolished.

Easier access to abortion pills via general practitioners might further increase numbers.

Is This a Dutch-Only Trend?

No. Many European countries and the U.S. are seeing similar increases in abortion numbers, despite different laws and conditions. In places like Scotland, France, Germany, Finland, and parts of the U.S., abortions have also risen — often linked to economic uncertainty and changing reproductive health practices.

Final Thoughts from Experts

The growing number of abortions doesn’t necessarily mean more unwanted pregnancies.

It may reflect improved access, earlier detection, and a changing view on reproductive choices.

Many experts warn against oversimplifying the reasons behind abortion decisions — it's rarely about a single factor.

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