Factors Related to Women's Fertility Intent: A Study Based on the Theory of Rational Action

Over the past few decades, we have seen a major decline in fertility in Iran and in the world. A wide range of social, economic and personality factors, including delayed marriage, fertility behavior, educational and economic goals have affected fertility intent. The rational action theory that determines the relationship among attitude, intent and behavior can be used to explain women's fertility intent.
The aim of this study was to determine the factors related to fertility intent based on rational action theory.
In this analytical cross-sectional research, the study’s population includes 480 married women covered by Saveh health centers which were selected by cluster sampling in 2015 and became subjects of the study. Data was collected by self-report and using a questionnaire designed on the basis of the constructs of the theory of rational action, marital satisfaction variable and demographic factors. It was analyzed by independent t test and Pearson’s correlation.
The results showed that about 62% of the women tended to have a baby. The variable of the fertility intent indicated significant and positive correlation with the constructs of the theory of rational action (attitude p=0.001, r=0.45, mental norms p=0.0001, r = 0.41, obedience motivation, p=0.0001, r = 0.36) and also marital satisfaction variable (p 0.0001, r = 0.37) and significant but a negative correlation with marriage age (r = -0.39, p=0.03).
According to the relationship between the constructs of the theory of rational action and the intention of fertility, consideration of these factors is useful for influencing women's fertility. Educational interventions on fertility are also recommended to help couples make informed decisions about fertility and correct false beliefs.