Abstract

PIP: This article presents updated annual indices of birth rates and trends in childbearing for the years 1961-97 in Sweden. Data were obtained from the Swedish population register system, which permits the collection of statistical information on the entire Swedish population with a very high accuracy rate. The fall of total fertility rates (TFR) since the mid-60s and their subsequent rise during 1980s correspond to a postponement in the age entry for motherhood during the same period. In 1980, the increase in the TFR was connected with a sudden change in the birth-spacing behavior of Swedish parents, which was induced by minor public policy reform. Simultaneous changes in childbearing intensities were significant among all demographic groups of women. In addition, increase in age at first birth and abruptly shorter birth intervals are essential components of the fertility trends. The article concludes by recommending a simple annual update of birth rates in Sweden, as this would provide a clear picture of the primary features of current fertility trends.