Analysing the Changing Patterns of High-Risk Fertility Behaviours among Married Women in India: A Decomposition Study from 1992 to 2021

Soumen Barik, International Institute for Population Sciences, India
Mayank Singh, Kle University

Abstract Background: High-risk fertility behaviour (HRFB) is a major public health concern, especially in low- and middle-income areas, including India. These behaviours impact on health; this analysis examines fertility patterns in India (1992–2021). Data and Methods: This study utilizes data from five rounds of the National Family Health Survey (NFHS) to examine the patterns of high-risk fertility behaviours among married women in India over nearly three decades. The analysis includes Univariate and Bivariate methods to observe trends, as well as multivariate decomposition analysis to identify key socio-demographic and economic factors that have contributed to changes in HRFB during this period. Results: Results indicate a significant decline in HRFB over the study period, with marked improvements in maternal health indicators. Factors such as increased educational attainment, improved access to healthcare services, greater contraceptive use, and enhanced mass media exposure have contributed to these positive trends. However, disparities persist based on socioeconomic status, caste, and region. Conclusion: The importance of continued efforts to improve women's education, healthcare access, and reproductive health services to sustain and further accelerate the decline in high-risk fertility behaviours in India. Keywords: High Risk Fertility Behaviour, Age at marriage, Age at birth, Birth order, Multivariate Decomposition, India.

Keywords: Decomposition analysis, Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights, Inequality, Disadvantage and Discrimination, Fertility

See extended abstract.