Dynamics of Reproductive Attitudes of Adult Fertile Women in St. Petersburg (2011–2021)

The article deals with the 2011- 2021dynamics of the reproductive attitudes of adult fertile women living in St.-Petersburg, including 3 preferred numbers of children measured (ideal, desired and expected numbers). The survey results based on telephone interviews with this group’s representatives showed the effects of the information influence as an instrument of public demographic policy over the period. On the one hand, positive effect is stated: the average expected number of children has increased. However, this happened because of the contribution of women aged 30-44. The main conclusions present also negative trends: an increase in percentage of women focused on childlessness, a deterioration in attitudes towards marriage registration, a continuing increase in the average age which St.-Petersburg women believe is the best for childbearing (both the first and the last). Problems with having more children, according to women’s reviews, were ranked. The survey shows that the stimulating effect of social support to families with children (maternity capital, etc.) remains limited. The women’s self-evaluation shows a deteriorating trend in their reproductive health.

fertility, reproductive attitudes, preferred number of children, childlessness, marriage rate, demographic policy, social policy, information policy