Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://hdl.handle.net/10419/338968 
Year of Publication: 
2026
Series/Report no.: 
GLO Discussion Paper No. 1730
Publisher: 
Global Labor Organization (GLO), Essen
Abstract: 
In this study, we use data from the recent round of the Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys (MICS) to estimate the effect of son preference on reproductive behaviour in Uzbekistan. We find strong evidence of differential stopping and spacing behaviour among Uzbek women. Women are significantly less likely to have a subsequent birth if they have at least one son at a given birth order. The effect is particularly strong among rural women at higher birth orders. The likelihood of discontinuation of childbearing increases as the number of sons increases. However, the sex of the firstborn child, whether male or female, plays no role in women's decisions about having additional children. We find that the probability of a subsequent short or risky birth interval is lower among women with at least one son. In addition, women with at least one son are more likely to use contraceptives. These patterns persist regardless of women's age. The findings have important implications for policymakers and practitioners in helping to design targeted interventions and programs in the country to improve reproductive health outcomes, promote gender equality, increase access to family planning services, and support women's reproductive autonomy.
Subjects: 
Son Preference
Birth Spacing
Fertility
Uzbekistan
JEL: 
D13
J13
C13
Z10
Document Type: 
Working Paper

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