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Second-Child Fertility Intentions among Urban Women in China: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Author

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  • Yu Yang

    (School of Humanities and Social Science, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710049, China)

  • Rongxin He

    (Vanke School of Public Health, Tsinghua University, Haidian District, Beijing 100084, China)

  • Ning Zhang

    (School of Public Policy and Administration, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710049, China)

  • Liming Li

    (School of Humanities and Social Science, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710049, China)

Abstract

With the adjustment of China’s fertility policy, the topic of women’s fertility has attracted much attention. In particular, urban women face a difficult choice between family and work. This study analyzed the prevalence and determinants of second-child fertility intention among urban women in China and aimed to provide evidence for improving fertility rate measures. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted using quantitative primary studies. We identified 16 cross-sectional studies that investigated a total of 24,979 urban women. The prevalence of second-child fertility intentions was 37%. A subgroup analysis revealed that the highest prevalence was observed between 2016 and 2017, and the lowest was observed in first-tier cities. Meta-analyses indicated that 18 factors were significantly associated with second-child fertility intentions, including demographic factors, fertility attitude, husbands, children, parents, or others. The findings of this study highlight the low second-child fertility intentions among urban women in China. Therefore, policymakers should consider various aspects, gradually optimizing fertility-supporting facilities, while encouraging fertility.

Suggested Citation

  • Yu Yang & Rongxin He & Ning Zhang & Liming Li, 2023. "Second-Child Fertility Intentions among Urban Women in China: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 20(4), pages 1-16, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:20:y:2023:i:4:p:3744-:d:1074495
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