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Contraceptive Use and Birth Intervals

Author

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  • Gauthier Tshiswaka-Kashalala

    (Department of Economics, University of Pretoria, South Africa.)

  • Steven F. Koch

    (Department of Economics, University of Pretoria)

Abstract

We develop a model linking contraceptive efficiency to birth spacing decisions that incorporates the costs and benefits of child-rearing on the potential mother, as well as the stochastic process surrounding human reproduction. The model fits within the realm of optimal stopping-time problems, which naturally leads to the development of a First Hit Time duration model that we estimate using data from the Democratic Republic of Congo. Increased contraceptive efficacy is found to increase time to first birth. Furthermore, the results are consistent with the hypothesis that children are normal goods, in that both income and child-related benefits are associated with decreased durations to childbirth.

Suggested Citation

  • Gauthier Tshiswaka-Kashalala & Steven F. Koch, 2015. "Contraceptive Use and Birth Intervals," Working Papers 201593, University of Pretoria, Department of Economics.
    • Handle: RePEc:pre:wpaper:201593
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    JEL classification:

    • C41 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Econometric and Statistical Methods: Special Topics - - - Duration Analysis; Optimal Timing Strategies
    • J13 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Fertility; Family Planning; Child Care; Children; Youth

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