Americans weigh family planning as political and climate fears grow

Some U.S. families are reconsidering having children due to concerns over reproductive rights, healthcare access and climate change following the 2024 presidential election.

Carter Sherman reports for The Guardian.

In short:

• Planned Parenthood reported significant increases in appointments for long-term contraceptives and sterilization procedures after the election.
• Many cite fears about abortion bans, maternal healthcare risks and economic instability as reasons to delay or avoid having children.
• Concerns over climate change and ecological uncertainty also play a role in shaping decisions around family planning.

Key quote:

“We want to be able to dream of having a family the way we want to, on our terms.”

— Ruth, a Florida mother

Why this matters:

Decisions about starting or expanding families reflect growing fears about healthcare, political instability and climate change. These shifts in attitudes may further impact U.S. fertility rates and highlight divisions in how Americans navigate reproductive choices.

Read more: Having children in a climate-conscious world