Finland faces declining birth rate as young adults delay parenthood amid financial concerns

In Finland, there is an ongoing concern about the declining birth rate, particularly among those under 30. A recent survey conducted on Yle’s website revealed over 250 responses, highlighting various reasons why young Finns are delaying parenthood. Key factors include involuntary infertility, difficulty finding a partner, worries about global issues, and personal financial insecurity.

The Väestöliitto (Finnish Family Research Institute) has proposed measures to address these challenges, including a significant monetary incentive for parents who have their first child before the age of 30. Currently, the average age of first-time mothers in Finland is 29.6 years.

Meri-Tuulia Heinonen Kaiponen, 31, from Rovaniemi, shared her experience of trying to conceive since she was 21. Despite a decade of attempts involving fertility treatments, her journey was marred by financial struggles and medical eligibility issues due to her BMI. However, after significant weight loss, she became pregnant just before her scheduled fertility appointment. Even with the proposed financial support, she believes that resources should be allocated towards fertility treatments and home care services instead.

Saara Leutola, 34, highlighted financial concerns as her main reason for remaining childless. As a freelance screenwriter, she feels caught in bureaucratic obstacles while contemplating parenthood. Additionally, 28-year-old Joni Kangas emphasized the impact of financial instability and global uncertainties, such as climate change, on his decision to delay starting a family.

Dr. Terhi Piltönen, a specialist in obstetrics and gynecology, noted a lack of awareness among young men regarding fertility age limits, and while women might be more informed, misconceptions persist. She advocates for a more positive societal discourse on parenthood, emphasizing that love and care are the most critical factors in raising children.