As the issue of abortion rights remains a significant topic in the upcoming U.S. presidential election, voters in ten states will make decisions regarding abortion rights on November 5.

A recent study published in JAMA Pediatrics indicates a significant rise in U.S. infant mortality rates following the Supreme Court's reversal of federal abortion rights in June 2022.

The study suggests that the Dobbs decision has restricted some women's ability to terminate pregnancies with severe fetal anomalies, which are often not compatible with life.

The researchers highlighted the broader implications of restricting abortion access, including potential mental health consequences for individuals denied care or forced to carry pregnancies with fatal anomalies.

Future research will explore whether the increase in infant mortality is consistent across all states or concentrated in those with stricter abortion laws.

While the study did not analyze state-specific variations, it suggested that the impact of restricted abortion access would likely be more severe in states with stringent laws.

Researchers Maria Gallo and Parvati Singh from Ohio University found that the overall infant mortality rate increased by 7%, with a notable 10% rise in deaths among infants born with congenital anomalies in the months after the ruling.

The analysis revealed an additional 247 infant deaths per month than expected, with 204 of those related to genetic conditions, particularly among babies born to individuals who became pregnant in early 2022.

The increase in infant mortality was especially pronounced among infants with severe congenital anomalies, suggesting that more frail infants were being born.

The initial increases in infant deaths were noted in September and October 2022, aligning with the timing for fetal anomaly diagnoses from ultrasound exams.

The investigation utilized data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, analyzing infant deaths from any cause as well as those with congenital anomalies.

Notably, no significant increase in infant deaths was observed beyond 14 months after the Dobbs decision, indicating a potential stabilization of rates.