Gestational Limits and Women’s Health: Evidence on Mental Health and Risk Behavior

Abstract

This paper explores the impact of Gestational Age Bans (GABs) on women’s mental and behavioral health outcomes in the United States. While previous literature is extensive, it has been unable to measure the long-term effects following Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization due to the recency of the decision. However, understanding how reproductive restrictions affect women is essential to building more effective health systems and policy frameworks that support their well-being. Using the BRFSS dataset from 2006 to 2023, this study employs fixed-effects regression, difference-in-differences, and event study models to examine whether women living in states with GABs experience poorer mental health and higher rates of smoking and binge drinking following the enactment of these laws. The results show that GABs are associated with a statistically significant increase in the number of poor mental health days and the likelihood of smoking among women in affected states. Interestingly, in states with extreme GAB laws—where the gestational limit is less than 20 weeks—women reported improved mental health following the policy, a finding that may reflect reporting bias or alignment with personal values. These findings emphasize the overlooked health consequences of abortion restrictions on women’s everyday lives.