Same but Different? Male-Female Fertility Differences at the Subnational Level over Time and across Countries

Henrik-Alexander Schubert , Max-Planck Institute for Demographic Research
Christian Dudel, Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research

This study investigates subnational variations in male-female fertility differences across Australia, Finland, France, Mexico, and the United States, utilizing longitudinal register data. Findings reveal substantial subnational heterogeneity in fertility differences. Historically, male fertility exceeded female fertility by nearly 50%, particularly in less developed regions. However, over time, these disparities have dwindled, particularly in regions experiencing higher levels of development. Capital regions, often more developed, exhibit reduced fertility gaps, with recent years even seeing higher female fertility. The study attributes the reduction in differences to advancements in human development and, to a lesser extent, gender equality, impacting population structures and age-specific fertility patterns. This research underscores the importance of considering regional and developmental nuances when analyzing gender-based fertility disparities.

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 Presented in Session 104. Fertility and Reproduction: Bringing Men Back In