This open access book provides an overview and analysis of the causes and consequences of the
massive and highly consequential transition in reproductive behaviour that occurred in Asia
Latin America and Africa since the mid-20th century. In the 1950s contraceptive use was rare
and women typically spend most of their reproductive years bearing and rearing children. By
2020 fertility and contraceptive use in Asia and Latin America reached levels commonly observed
in the developed world. Africa's fertility is still high but transitions have started in all
countries. This monograph is the first to provide a comprehensive analysis of these trends and
their determinants covering changes in reproductive behaviour (e.g. use of contraception and
abortion) preferences (e.g. desire to limit and space births) and the role of socioeconomic
development (e.g. education). The role of government policies and in particular family
planning programs is discussed in depth. Particular attention is given to provide a balanced
assessment of several political and scientific controversies that have beset the field. As such
this book provides an interesting read for a wide audience of undergraduate and graduate
students researchers and public health policy makers.
