Research Article: Knowledge of the statutory fertility provision and its associated factors among reproductive-aged women: a cross-sectional study conducted in Shandong Province, China
Abstract:
Knowledge of the statutory fertility provision is a critical but understudied determinant of effective policy implementation in the context of China’s declining fertility rate. This study aimed to identify factors associated with such knowledge among reproductive-aged women aged 18–45 in Shandong Province, so as to provide empirical evidence for optimizing the fertility policy publicity system.
A cross-sectional survey was conducted using multistage stratified cluster sampling among reproductive-aged women in Shandong Province. Data were collected using a researcher-developed, self-administered questionnaire. The chi-square test and multivariate logistic regression were used to identify factors associated with knowledge of the statutory fertility provision.
A total of 2,422 valid questionnaires were included. Only 43.31% of participants had adequate knowledge of the statutory fertility provision. Multivariate logistic regression identified four key factors independently associated with knowledge: residence, monthly total family expenditure, expected age at first birth, and preferred number of children (all p <?0.05). Rural residents had significantly lower knowledge than urban residents. Higher knowledge was observed among women with moderate monthly expenditure (4001–8,000 Yuan), those planning first birth at 28–34?years, and those expecting 3 or more children.
Knowledge of the statutory fertility provision among reproductive-aged women in Shandong Province is low and associated with multiple sociodemographic and fertility-related factors. Targeted policy communication strategies that address rural–urban disparities and prioritize key groups are needed to improve policy awareness.
Introduction:
Long-term balanced population development is the core support for sustainable economic and social progress ( 1 ). At present, China’s population growth has entered a new stage of negative growth. In 2024, the total number of births nationwide was 9.54 million, with a natural growth rate of ?0.99‰ ( 2 ). From the perspective of population age structure, China has entered a society with sub-replacement fertility and population aging ( 3 ). Low fertility and population aging have become major strategic issues…
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