Northern Ireland Abortion Statistics Publication 2020/21 – 2022/23

The Department of Health (DoH) today published statistics relating to abortions in Northern Ireland 2020/21 – 2022/23.

The statistical bulletin presents information on the number of abortions carried out in Northern Ireland during 2020/21 – 2022/23.

The information release is published online.

Key Points

• On 22 October 2019 abortion in Northern Ireland was decriminalised, with legislation being passed on 31 March 2020. The figures presented in the current publication cover the period 1 April 2020 to 31 March 2023. The publication is not comparable to previous iterations.
• The number of abortions carried out in Northern Ireland was 1,574 in 2020/21, 1,755 in 2021/22 and 2,168 in 2022/23.
• During 2020/21, there were 46 abortions carried out on women under 18, 1,149 carried out on women aged 18 – 34 years and 362 carried out on women aged 35 years and over.
• During 2021/22, there were 54 abortions carried out on women under 18, 1,359 carried out on women aged 18 – 34 years and 307 carried out on women aged 35 years and over.
• During 2022/23, there were 60 abortions carried out on women under 18, 1,663 carried out on women aged 18 – 34 years and 409 carried out on women aged 35 years and over.

Notes to editors: 

1. The source of this information is notifications provided to the CMO in Northern Ireland. Further information on Northern Ireland abortions is available from: Hospital information Branch, Department of Health, Annexe 2, Castle Buildings, Stormont, BT4 3SQ Tel: 028 90 528452 Email: statistics@health-ni.gov.uk Internet: https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/articles/termination-pregnancy
    
2. For media enquiries please contact the DoH Press Office by email pressoffice@health-ni.gov.uk.
    
3. Follow us on X @healthdpt and linkedIn Department of Health NI | LinkedIn
    
4. The Executive Information Service operates an out of hours service For Media Enquiries Only between 1800hrs and 0800hrs Monday to Friday and at weekends and public holidays. The duty press officer can be contacted on 028 9037 8110.

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