Differences in Fertility Patterns Between Urban and Rural Women in Washington State, 1983–1984 to 1993–1994

ABSTRACT

We use data on Washington State abortions and births for 1983–1984 and 1993–1994 to analyze trends for urban and rural women, using the demographic measures total abortion and total fertility rates. These express pacing of childbearing in a single number which is simple to calculate and interpret, and is age-standardized. We find significant urban-rural differences. Total abortion rates decline and total fertility rates increase in both areas. However, the relative magnitudes of pacing decreases in abortions for rural women and increases in births for urban women are striking. The demographic measures are useful interpretive tools, and can be applied to a broad range of questions.

ABSTRACT:

• Fertility patterns
• women's reproductive health
• birth and abortion rates
• urban and rural differences
• demographic measures