US fertility rate dropped to record low in 2023, CDC data shows

Fertility Rate in the US Reaches Record Low #

The fertility rate in the United States has hit a historic low, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The rate has been declining for years, with a slight increase in 2021 attributed to a potential Covid-19 “baby bump.” However, the rate quickly returned to its downward trend. In 2023, the fertility rate dropped by 3%, reaching approximately 55 births for every 1,000 females aged 15 to 44. The number of births since 2007 has decreased by 17%. Several social and economic factors contribute to the decline, including delayed marriages, longer education periods, and greater acceptance of not having children or having smaller families. The data also shows a decrease in teen births and a rise in late pregnancies. The impact of abortion policy changes on birth rates is being observed, but the relationship is complex. Concerningly, the percentage of pregnant women receiving late or no prenatal care has been increasing.