Changing fertility preferences in urban and rural Senegal: patterns and determinants

This study draws upon data collected in urban and rural Senegal and cohort analysis, to explore changes in women’s fertility preferences and the contradiction between preferred and actual fertility behaviors. Regression analyses by cohorts is used to determine the factors affecting women’ fertility preferences over time. The total fertility rate in Senegal remains high at 5 children per woman and the country has one of the highest unmet needs for family planning services in the West Africa region. This study’s findings therefore will provide policymakers with an understanding of the potential demand for fertility control and help in formulating policies to reduce fertility and improve maternal health.