Fertility rate in Brazil and in adolescents in the last 20 years

Abstract

Objective: to discuss the downward trend in the fertility rate in Brazil in the last two decades and the factors that contributed to this reduction. Methods: review study with data collection from secondary sources, such as the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE) and the Department of Informatics of the Unified Health System (DATASUS). Results: there was a significant drop in the average number of children per woman of childbearing age, from 2.4 in 2000 to 1.7 in 2020, due to several factors, such as higher education, participation of women in the labor market, availability of methods contraceptives and access to information. However, the fertility rate among adolescents is still considered high, at 45.9 births per thousand women aged 15 to 19 in 2020. The reduction in the fertility rate in Brazil is a positive trend, but there is still concern about the high rates of early pregnancy and childbirth among adolescents. Conclusions: It is crucial to invest in sexual and reproductive health services, as well as in initiatives that promote gender equality and empower women and girls, creating opportunities for them to participate fully in the social, economic and political life of the country.