Rising Infant Mortality and Adoption Challenges in Post-Abortion Ban Texas

Texas' strict abortion laws, including a ban on most abortions after six weeks of pregnancy, may be contributing to a spike in infant mortality rates as women are forced to carry nonviable pregnancies to term. Preliminary data shows that in 2022, there was an 11.5% increase in infant deaths compared to the previous year, with a 21.6% rise in deaths caused by severe genetic and birth defects. While the increase in births may partially explain the rise in deaths, obstetrician-gynecologists believe that the restrictive abortion laws are a contributing factor. A lawsuit has been filed by the Center for Reproductive Rights, with women testifying about their difficult pregnancies and infant deaths. The plaintiffs are seeking clarification on medical exceptions to the state's abortion ban.