Are you wondering how India’s population can be the largest in the world and still have a decline in fertility rate? To answer this we must first understand the concept of fertility rate. Fertility rate refers to the number of births born to a woman within a specific age range. It is an indicator of the reproductive activity in the country. A latest survey reveals a drop in India’s fertility rate. It is now recorded at 1.9 births for every woman. This is below the average 2.1 births per woman. This confirms that the decline in fertility across the country is indeed happening.
The fertility decline rate in India has severe implications on healthcare and society and the overall economy of the country. So, let’s understand how this decline in the fertility rate can affect the nation, with special emphasis on healthcare and society.
With lower births, there will be an increase in the aging population in the country. Elderly individuals are more susceptible to health issues associated with aging. So, this increase in age-related health complications can put pressure on the healthcare system. Healthcare systems will have to adapt quickly to provide medical services that cater to an aging population.
Another repercussion of the fertility decline rate in India is that with a lower birth rate, fewer women will be visiting hospitals for maternal healthcare. This will consequently lead to a decline in the need for maternal health care services. It will force hospitals and also health departments to shift their focus to other medical treatments.
Lower birth rates mean fewer children will require pediatric care. Today, hospitals and clinics have dedicated departments for women and child care. However, with India’s declining fertility rate, there are chances hospitals will have to shift focus. Hospitals may redirect resources to other health services, minimizing resources for women and child care.
The declining fertility rate in India also has severe implications for the societal structure. For example, family sizes will now reduce from 2 children per family to one. This could lead to a transition toward more compact families. Also, the decline in fertility rate can reduce the population of a working age group, consequently resulting in a depreciating economy.
While there are many reasons for the decline in fertility rate, including delayed marriages, career advancements, and also family planning, there is one reason in particular that stands out-Infertility. The rising rate of infertility among men and women in India is a burning issue in India.
It becomes necessary to take steps to overcome the impact of the fertility rate decline in India. Women empowerment, support from families, economic policies, and also addressing infertility issues are some of the methods to overcome the adverse impact of fertility rate decline.
Kinder Women’s Hospital and Fertility Centre is a leading women and child care hospital in Bangalore. We are recognized for achieving positive result rates in fertility treatments across Bangalore. With our advanced medical facilities, coupled with the latest technology and state-of-the-art facilities, and our team of top fertility specialists in Bangalore, we at Kinder Women’s Hospital provide hope for aspiring parents.
