US Fertility Rate Hits Lowest Level in a Century Amid Declining Births

 

Deidre McPhillips reports on the significant drop in the US fertility rate, reaching its lowest point in more than a century, according to provisional data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The decline in births in 2023 contributed to this historic low, with various factors influencing demographic trends.

Key Points:

1. Historic Low: The fertility rate in the US has been steadily declining for decades, and the latest data shows a further decrease in births in 2023. With approximately 3.6 million babies born, the fertility rate dropped to 54.4 live births per 1,000 females aged 15 to 44, marking the lowest level in over a century.

2. Impact of COVID-19: The Covid-19 pandemic initially led to a steep decline in births, and while the fertility rate has fluctuated since then, the 3% drop between 2022 and 2023 brought it below the previous low recorded in 2020. Dr. Brady Hamilton from the CDC notes that while declines in birth rates have occurred in the past, the recent decrease aligns with long-term trends.

3. Demographic Shifts: The decline in birth rates was observed across most age groups, with the teen birth rate reaching another record low. However, births among older mothers, particularly those aged 30 to 34, remained relatively stable or increased slightly. This shift towards delayed childbearing reflects changing societal norms and economic factors.

4. Potential Influences: While the data does not provide geographic trends, it raises questions about the potential impact of state-level abortion bans, particularly following the US Supreme Court's Dobbs decision. An analysis suggests that states with abortion bans experienced slightly higher fertility rates compared to states without restrictions.

5. Rising Cesarean Deliveries: The report highlights a concerning trend of increasing rates of cesarean deliveries, with nearly a third of all births now being C-sections. This rise includes low-risk births, indicating a broader shift towards medical interventions during childbirth.

6. Data Considerations: The provisional nature of the data underscores the need for caution in interpreting trends, as final figures may vary once all records are reviewed. Nonetheless, the latest report provides valuable insights into ongoing demographic changes in the US.

Conclusion:

The latest data from the CDC reveals a significant decline in the US fertility rate, reaching its lowest level in over a century. While various factors contribute to this trend, including the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic and shifting demographic patterns, the implications for future population dynamics warrant continued attention and research.