Fertility Differentials among Youths in Liberia

Luther P. Whian, Regional Institute for Population Studies (RIPS), University of Ghana

This study investigates fertility patterns among Liberian youths aged 15-35 years old using data from the 2019 Liberia Demographic and Health Survey. Employing a comprehensive framework using Poisson Model, the study analyzes socioeconomic, sociocultural, and demographic factors. Results reveal that education level, wealth, residence, marital status, contraceptive use, age and age at first birth significantly impact youth fertility. However, media exposure, religion, ethnicity, and healthcare-seeking challenges do not play a significant role in predicting youth fertility in Liberia. These findings can guide targeted interventions to enhance family planning and reproductive health choices, contributing to Liberia’s socioeconomic development.