Number of pregnancy terminations in Finland rises in 2025
The number of pregnancy terminations, or abortions, in Finland increased in 2025, according to data from the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL). Nearly 9,100 terminations were performed on women of reproductive age (15–49), marking a 3.8 percent rise compared to the previous year. This equates to approximately 7.6 terminations per thousand women in this age group (Helsingin Sanomat).
The highest number of terminations occurred among women aged 20–29. While the exact reasons for the increase remain unclear, experts suggest that financial barriers to contraception and changes in public healthcare policies may have played a role.
Factors behind the rise
THL’s lead expert Anna Heino highlighted the cost and availability of contraception as key factors in the rise of abortions. Aamulehti reports that Heino noted contraception can be a significant expense for young people with low or no income, particularly if they are facing financial difficulties (Iltalehti).
Saara Koskinen, a general practitioner specializing in adolescent health at Pirkanmaa’s youth clinic, told Aamulehti that some young patients have requested cheaper birth control options during appointments, with some stating they cannot afford contraception at all. In Pirkanmaa, free contraception is now available only to those under 21, whereas in 2023, it was provided to all residents under 25. Similar policy changes in other wellbeing services counties may have contributed to the trend (Iltalehti).
Beyond financial constraints, personal life circumstances also influence the number of terminations.
Contraception services in Helsinki
The City of Helsinki provides free contraception for young people and certain vulnerable groups. Those under 25 can access free birth control pills or contraceptive rings for one year, while copper IUDs, hormonal IUDs, and contraceptive implants are free until the age of 25. These long-term methods are also available at no cost within one year of a pregnancy termination or for clients of substance abuse services.
First-time users of birth control pills or contraceptive rings can obtain a three-month supply for free. Additionally, individuals with certain medical conditions are entitled to free contraception (Iltalehti).