Abortions and abortive behavior in the context of searching for demographic development reserves in russia

The aim of the work is to analyze the modern trend of reducing absolute and relative abortion rates in Russia, as well as assessing this trend to preserve the reproductive potential and strengthen the socio-demographic security of Russia. It examines the scope, pace, and regional differentiation of abortions in recent years, and identifies prospects for reducing the incidence of pregnancy interruptions as a reserve for improving demographic development. Methods. The method of analytical analysis consisted in the selection and study of the content of domestic and foreign approaches to the subject of scientific interest, Rosstat data and regulatory documents. The statistical method allowed making calculations, which were the basis for illustrations of results of the project using a graphic method. The method of comparison and the rating method gave an idea of the spread of abortions in different periods of time, and also provided an opportunity to classify the subjects of Russia according to a number of indicators. Results. In 2017 the number of abortions was less than 700 thousand. Over the previous seven years, Russia has lost 1 million lives due to abortions. The maximum abortions accounted for the most "productive" age of 25-29 years. The proportion of this group of women in the total number of women who produced an abortion is 27-28 %. This indicates a more intensive abortive behaviour of this age group of women, the positive transformation of which could also contribute to a greater number of births. Conclusions. The implementation of a nationwide campaign to prevent abortions can help save an additional 130-150 thousand lives of newborns annually. For 10 years, this will allow to increase births in the country to the level of 1.3-1.5 million children. The article contributes to the scientific discussion and considers abortions and abortive culture as an additional reserve to improve the demographic situation in the future.