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Why are births falling?

Several factors contribute to falling birth rates, including economic uncertainty, changing social attitudes towards family size, and increased access to contraception. The story specifically mentions a shift towards later parenthood, with the average age of mothers now over 31, suggesting lifestyle choices play a role.

Stories that explain this

Births in England and Wales lowest since 1977

Related explainers

What is the fertility rate? What happened in 1977? Who are the ONS? Why are AI prices falling? How common are birth defects? Are energy prices falling? Why are energy prices falling? Why are GP numbers falling?

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