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The Effects of Gender-Specific Local Labor Demand on Birth and Later Outcomes

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  • Mika Akesaka
  • Nobuyoshi Kikuchi

Abstract

We study the effects of local labor market conditions during early pregnancy on birth and later outcomes. Using a longitudinal survey of newborns in Japan, we find that improvements in employment opportunities increase the probability of low birth weight and premature birth. We also examine the effects of gender-specific labor market conditions. An increase in labor demand for women has a large negative effect on gestational age, especially for mothers who gave birth at relatively young ages. However, we find little evidence of a lasting negative effect of an increase in labor demand during early pregnancy on serious health conditions or developmental delays in early childhood. Using prefecture-level panel data, we confirm that the negative effect on infant birth weight is not driven by selective fertility and mortality.

Suggested Citation

  • Mika Akesaka & Nobuyoshi Kikuchi, 2021. "The Effects of Gender-Specific Local Labor Demand on Birth and Later Outcomes," ISER Discussion Paper 1153rrr, Institute of Social and Economic Research, Osaka University, revised May 2024.
    • Handle: RePEc:dpr:wpaper:1153rrr
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    References listed on IDEAS

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