Abortion rates among women under the age of 20 have decreased
gradually since 1972. In 1972 it was reported that 32.6 of all abortions
were obtained by women in their teens (2). That percentage dropped on
average 3.7 percent as time went on. By 1999, 19.2 percent of all
abortions were performed on teenagers (2). The declines in the abortion
ratio and rate over time may reflect multiple factors. Studies show a
decrease in the number of unintended pregnancies. It may also be due
to changes in our education programs in schools, including an increased
use of contraceptives. Also, it may be due to a reduced access to abortion
serves, including the passage of abortion laws that affect adolescents.