Age at first birth
Sibanda, A.; Zuberi, T.
The demography of South Africa: 65-89
2005
Document Number: 450777
A study was conducted examining the association between ethnicity, race and socioeconomic variables on the timing of first births in South Africa. Data from the 10 percent sample of the South African Population Census were used. Household and individual data, including age at first birth and other fertility-related data were obtained for all women aged 12 years and above. Significant racial differences in age at first birth were observed. Early childbearing was associated with urban residence. The odds of becoming a mother were substantially different among the various ethnic groups in South Africa. Of all the African ethnic groups in South Africa, Venda women had the highest chances of becoming mothers early compared to Zulu women at all ages. Women with secondary and postsecondary education had significantly lower chances of having a first birth than women with no education, at almost all ages. Women with primary education also have lower odds ratios. The effects of urban residence on the timing of motherhood were positive at the young ages, that is below age 22. The relationship, however, becomes negative and significant above age 25. Among White ethnic groups, Afrikaner women were more likely to have a first birth at ages 17-18, 19-20, and 21-22 than English-speaking women. Women with secondary education had significantly higher odds of beginning a family early. Residing in an urban area significantly reduced the odds of having a first child at ages 19 and above. Among Colored women, motherhood was more attractive to those with primary education. Among Indian/Asian women, postsecondary education substantially contributed to delaying the first birth. Secondary education was associated with significant odds of becoming a mother at ages 23-26 and 29-32.