U.S. Fertility Rate Hits Record Low for 2nd Straight Year; 40.7% of Babies Born to Unmarried Women

The fertility rate of women in the United States fell to a record low for the second year in a row in 2012, according to data released last week by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Also for the second year in a row, 40.7 percent of the babies born in the United States were born to unmarried mothers. The fertility rate is the number of births per 1,000 women aged 15-44. In 2012--according to the Dec. 30, 2013 CDC report "Births: Final Data for 2012"--the U.S. fertility rate was 63.0. That was down from 63.2 in 2011, the previous all-time low.

✨ Trying to Conceive?

Our fertility supplements combine Myo-Inositol with essential vitamins to support healthy hormone balance and regular ovulation.

Shop Now — $36.00

✓ Free shipping available  |  ✓ Trusted by millions of couples worldwide

"The 2012 general fertility rate (GFR) for the U.S. was 63.0 births per 1,000 women aged 15-44, down slightly (less than 1%) from the record low rate reported for the nation in 2011 (63.2)," said the CDC report.

The U.S. fertility rate has dropped from year-to-year for each of the last five years. In 2007, it was 69.3. In 2008, it was 68.1. In 2009, it was 66.2. In 2010, it was 64.1. In 2011, it was 63.2. And, in 2012, it was 63.0.

Since 1960, the fertility rate in the United States has declined 46.6 percent. In that year, 118 babies were born per 1,000 women aged 15 to 44. Of the 3,952,841 babies who were born in the United States in 2012, said the CDC report, 1,609,619-or 40.7 percent--were born to unmarried mothers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the UK fertility rate declining like in the US?

Yes, the UK has also experienced a decline in fertility rates over recent decades, though patterns differ slightly from the US. According to the Office for National Statistics, the total fertility rate in England and Wales has been below the replacement level of 2.1 children per woman for many years. If you're concerned about your own fertility, the NHS recommends seeing your GP if you haven't conceived after one year of trying (or six months if you're over 36).

How common are fertility problems in the UK?

Fertility issues are more common than many people realise. According to NHS statistics, approximately 1 in 7 UK couples experience difficulty conceiving. If you've been trying to conceive for over a year without success, it's worth speaking to your GP about a referral for fertility investigations.

Can I get fertility treatment on the NHS?

NHS fertility treatment is available, but access varies significantly depending on where you live in the UK. NICE guidelines recommend that women under 40 should be offered three full cycles of IVF if they've been trying for two years, but individual Integrated Care Boards (formerly CCGs) set their own funding criteria. It's important to check your local ICB's eligibility requirements, as waiting times and age limits can differ considerably.

What age does fertility start to decline for women in the UK?

According to the HFEA, female fertility begins to decline gradually from around age 30 and more significantly after 35. By age 40, the chance of conceiving naturally each month is around 5%. If you're over 36 and have been trying to conceive for six months, the NHS recommends seeking medical advice sooner rather than waiting a full year.

Does being unmarried affect my access to fertility treatment in the UK?

No, your marital status should not affect your access to NHS fertility treatment in the UK. NICE guidelines state that fertility services should be offered regardless of whether you're married, in a civil partnership, or single. However, some ICBs may have specific criteria around existing children in your household, so it's worth checking local policies.

How long are NHS waiting times for fertility treatment?

NHS waiting times for fertility treatment vary considerably across the UK, with some areas having waits of 12 months or longer for initial consultations and treatment. The HFEA recommends contacting your local fertility clinic directly for current waiting time information. Many couples choose to begin with lifestyle changes and fertility supplements whilst waiting for their NHS referral.

What lifestyle changes can help improve fertility whilst TTC?

The NHS recommends maintaining a healthy weight, reducing alcohol intake, stopping smoking, and taking folic acid supplements when trying to conceive. Both partners should focus on a balanced diet and regular exercise, as male fertility is equally important. Fertility supplements containing ingredients like myo-inositol may also help support hormone balance and ovulation in women.