Resumo

WELTI CHANES, Carlos. Análisis demográfico de la fecundidad adolescente en México. Pap. poblac [online]. 2000, vol.6, n.26, pp.43-87. ISSN 2448-7147.

Data from Vital Statistics and the National Demographic Survey conducted in Mexico in 1997 is used to examine trends and determinants of fertility among adolescents. In the last twenty years the level of fertility measured by the Global Fertility Rate has declined almost fifty per cent whereas the fertility of women 15 to 19 years old diminished only 39 per cent and therefore, its share in the general fertility level has increased giving more visibility to this phenomenon. Adolescent fertility seems to be associated with marital instability and higher infant mortality levels, especially among younger adolescent mothers. A young woman’s level of education its the factor most strongly associated with the probability of giving birth during adolescence. Although there is a need for greater research in this area, the promotion of education may be the most effective means of encouraging delayed childbearing among adolescents in Mexico.