Abortion-related laws may affect broader access to maternal health care
Medical Xpress
February 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A study published in *Health Economics* reveals a significant unintended consequence of abortion-related regulations: a notable decline in the availability of obstetricians and gynecologists across the U.S. Over the past decade, increasing numbers of states have implemented Targeted Regulation of Abortion Providers (TRAP) laws, imposing stringent standards on abortion clinics that are often medically unnecessary. These regulations, while intended to target abortion providers, have inadvertently created barriers for access to broader maternal health care services, including prenatal and postpartum care.
The study analyzed data from over 30 states and found that TRAP laws have led to the closure of numerous obstetrician and gynecologist practices near abortion clinics. These laws require abortion facilities to meet costly and complex standards, such as constructing expensive operating rooms or maintaining full-time emergency room services. Many providers, particularly in rural areas, cannot afford to comply with these requirements, leading to a reduction in the number of OB-GYNs available to serve patients.
The decline in maternal health care access is particularly concerning because obstetricians and gynecologists play a critical role in providing essential services beyond abortion, including prenatal care, childbirth support, and postpartum health. The study highlights that reduced availability of these specialists could lead to longer wait times for appointments, limited access to birth control options, and increased risks for complications during pregnancy and childbirth.
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Originally published on Medical Xpress on 2/25/2026