The Impact of Disability on Fertility among Young Men and Women

Erling Häggström Lundevaller , Centre for Demographic and Ageing Research (CEDAR), Umeå University
Fredinah Namatovu, Centre for Demographic and Ageing Research (CEDAR), Umeå University
Glenn Sandström, Centre for Demographic and Ageing Research (CEDAR), Umeå University

Aim: This study aims to compare fertility between people with disabilities and those without disabilities and to identify associated demographic factors. Method: The materials under study consist of 693 247 persons from the Swedish population born between 1968 and 1970. Results: Persons who received disability pension had fewer children compare to those without disability pension. Persons that received disability pension had children at a much younger age when compared to those who did not receive disability pension. Marriage was less common in the group that received disability pension compared to those who did not receive disability pension. Our regression findings indicate an association receiving disability pension and reduced odds of having children. Age at starting to receive disability pension was associated with age of having children. People born outside Sweden were more likely to have no children regardless of sex. We also noted that Women were more likely to have children when compared to men. Conclusion: Disability is associated with low fertility and early start of parenthood.

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 Presented in Session 119. Health and Fertility