Abortion Free New Mexico (AFNM) announced that, according to Guttmacher Institute data, 63% of all abortions performed in New Mexico in 2023 involved abortion pills, matching the national average.
According to AFNM, the use of medication abortion pills has been steadily increasing, noting that in 2020, 53% of U.S. abortions were performed with pills. AFNM's report also revealed that six abortion facilities in New Mexico exclusively provide chemical abortions and that many of these facilities are dispensing the abortion pill beyond the FDA's approved limit of 10 weeks, with some going as far as 12 weeks.
Additionally, AFNM referenced a report from The Ethics and Public Policy Center (EPPC) that raised concerns about the safety of mifepristone, a drug used in medication abortions. The EPPC study found that 10.93% of women experienced severe complications, such as infection, hemorrhaging, or sepsis, within 45 days of taking mifepristone, a rate far higher than what is indicated by the FDA drug label. AFNM argued that the FDA should reinstate stronger safety protocols and reassess the drug's approval due to these findings.
AFNM noted a decrease in abortion numbers in 2024, citing their advocacy efforts, including sidewalk counseling and pro-life billboard campaigns, as contributing factors to the decline. AFNM advocates for stricter regulations on abortion pills and an overall reduction in abortions in the state, according to AFNM.
Abortion Free New Mexico is led by Bud and Tara Shaver, who have worked as full-time missionaries since 2010, focusing on efforts to end abortion in the state. The organization uses research, public awareness, and calls for oversight to target abortion providers and related institutions, with initiatives including medical investigations, local referendums, and public campaigns. Their work has highlighted abortion practices in Albuquerque and promoted policy changes through community outreach and exposure.
