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Data shows abortion rate in Iowa is declining

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June 7th, 2015 by Ric Hanson

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Data shows the number of abortions performed annually in Iowa is declining. Between 2010 and 2013, the number of abortions decreased from nearly 5,400 to just over 4,420. That represents an 18.1 percent drop.

The Associated Press compiled the data based on information from the Iowa Department of Public Health. Data on abortion rates was collected from health departments in 45 U.S. states that keep such information on a comprehensive basis. It shows the annual number of abortions has declined substantially since 2010 in most states.

Penny Dickey with Planned Parenthood of the Heartland in Iowa says the decline is linked to better access to family planning services like contraception. Jenifer Bowen with Iowa Right to Life argues more pregnancy centers in Iowa are offering counseling services to women.