Final answer:
Falling abortion rates are majorly influenced by increased use of contraception and shifting societal views, but restrictive state laws also play a significant role. States have the power to set their abortion policies, which impacts access and can subsequently affect abortion rates.
Step-by-step explanation:
Falling rates of abortion can be attributed to a variety of factors, including increased access to and use of contraception, educational and economic opportunities for women, advances in gender equality, and knowledge of family planning. Laws and policies at both state and federal levels also play a role in shaping abortion rates. For instance, some states have implemented restrictive laws that functionally limit access to abortions, particularly for poor women, which can contribute to reduced abortion rates. Meanwhile, societal changes and venue shopping by advocacy groups seeking to limit abortion rights have influenced the legal and social landscape surrounding abortion.
It is important to note that states have the power to decide their policies on abortion, which can significantly affect a woman's ability to access abortion services. This, in turn, can impact women's freedoms, including the pursuit of education and the right to vote, particularly if penalizations for abortion are severe. The evolution of public opinion on issues like premarital sex and abortion, as well as broader societal trends such as the decreased necessity for large families in Europe and North America, have also influenced abortion rates.