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The contribution of assisted reproductive technology to fertility rates and parity transition: An analysis of Australian data.

Authors :
Lazzari, Ester
Gray, Edith
Chambers, Georgina M.
Source :
Demographic Research; Jul-Dec2021, Vol. 45, p1081-1095, 17p
Publication Year :
2021

Abstract

BACKGROUND Despite the widespread use of assisted reproductive technology (ART), few studies analyse its impact on the total fertility rate (TFR). Furthermore, very little is known about how ART affects fertility at older reproductive ages and contributes to family size. OBJECTIVE We aim to quantify the contribution of ART to total and age-specific fertility rates and in relation to the transition to first and subsequent births in Australia. METHODS Using data from a comprehensive clinical registry of ART treatments, age-specific ART and non-ART fertility rates were calculated and used to decompose the change in the TFR between 2010 and 2017 into ART and non-ART components. RESULTS ART represented an increasing and relevant contribution to the TFR, corresponding to an impact of the order of 4% to 5% per annum, or approximately to 1 in 20 births. Increasing fertility rates at age 33 and above exerted a positive effect on the overall TFR, and they were almost entirely attributable to the increasing use of ART. Women resorted to ART especially to have a first child. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
14359871
Volume :
45
Database :
Supplemental Index
Journal :
Demographic Research
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
157862637
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.4054/DemRes.2021.45.35