A new study published in JAMA Network Open reports that people from states with abortion restrictions or bans are traveling long distances to Illinois, where abortion remains legal, often facing significant delays and challenges. The findings were released on Mar. 9 and focus on the experiences of individuals seeking abortion care after the June 2022 Dobbs v Jackson Women's Health Organization Supreme Court decision.
The study highlights how recent state-level restrictions have changed both access to care and the personal journeys of those affected. Researchers interviewed and surveyed 33 people who traveled from restrictive states to Illinois for abortion services. Many participants reported waiting about a month between deciding to have an abortion and receiving care.
The paper details several factors shaping these experiences, including stigma around abortion, limited information and resources, and lack of support systems. One participant described the isolation faced during their journey: "I took 2 flights coming here by myself. Whatever I've needed to do I've done it by myself, alone. And I left my baby for the first time in my life with a neighbor for three days just to be here. It's a hard situation. Sometimes you don't have money saved to pay to have another person come with you." This anonymous testimonial was provided by Participant G, who came from a state with a partial abortion ban.
According to the authors, policy changes alone are not enough; they recommend increasing access to accurate information about abortion services, expanding charitable funding for those in need, and working toward reducing stigma associated with seeking abortions.
The study's findings suggest that as more states implement restrictions or bans on abortion, individuals will continue facing logistical, financial, and emotional barriers when seeking care across state lines.
