A recent study conducted by Quebec’s statistics institute reveals a significant trend among women in the province, showing a decline in childbirth rates and a tendency to delay motherhood. Montreal stands out with the lowest fertility rate of 1.11 children per woman, along with the highest average maternal age of 33.1 years in 2024.
According to McGill sociology professor Shelley Clark, various factors contribute to this shift, including the impact of education and access to contraception. Clark emphasizes that rural areas often experience higher fertility rates due to limited access to birth control and abortion services, leading to more unplanned pregnancies.
Furthermore, evolving parenting models are reshaping societal norms around family structures. Clark notes a shift in perspectives on parenthood and the increasing acceptance of diverse family arrangements in which individuals can become parents without traditional lifelong partnerships.
In Quebec, approximately 40 percent of children are born to unmarried parents, a statistic influenced by the prevalence of cohabitation. Clark suggests that the transition to adulthood, including forming relationships and starting families, now occurs later in life than in previous generations.
Mothers in Montreal share personal reflections on their fertility choices, highlighting the evolving attitudes towards parenthood and independence. The discussion also raises questions about the challenges of balancing work and family life, emphasizing the importance of affordability and lifestyle considerations in family planning decisions.
Interestingly, the fertility rate in Northern Quebec surpasses the population replacement level at 2.28, showcasing regional disparities in childbirth patterns. Clark points out the significant differences between urban and rural areas in Quebec, a trend that is more pronounced compared to other regions in Canada.
Keyphrase: declining fertility rates Quebec
