In a recent broadcast, Fox News senior medical analyst Dr. Marc Siegel voiced concerns over the declining fertility rates in the United States, particularly among teenagers and young adults. His commentary has since sparked considerable online backlash, as many believe that the trends should not be viewed negatively.
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According to preliminary data from the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), fertility rates in the U.S. have reached a historic low in 2025, continuing a downward trajectory that has persisted since 2007. Specifically, the general fertility rate has decreased from 53.8 births per 1,000 women aged 15 to 44 in 2024 to 53.1 in 2025, amounting to a 1% drop. Cumulatively, this marks a 23% decline over nearly two decades.
During a segment aired on April 10, Dr. Siegel highlighted that of the approximately 3.6 million births annually, there has been a significant decrease in the birth rate among teenagers. He reported a 7% drop in fertility rates for those aged 15 to 19, which translates to a staggering 70% reduction over the last twenty years. Siegel suggested that societal messages have discouraged young individuals from starting families before they attain a more stable life and financial security.
Siegel also pointed to a trend where women are increasingly choosing to have children later in life. He noted that the average number of children per woman in the U.S. has fallen to 1.56. To maintain a stable population, a fertility rate of around 2.1 children per woman is necessary, indicating a discrepancy that experts are concerned about.
The segment featuring Dr. Siegel has garnered over two million views and provoked a variety of reactions on social media. Critics argue that his view equates to advocating for teen pregnancies, a notion that many find troubling. One social media user remarked, “Ages 15-19 should be about school, dreams, and growing up, not adults normalising teen pregnancy on national TV.” Another declared, “Hot Take: Teen pregnancies being on a decline is actually a good thing,” highlighting a divergence in public opinion on the matter.
Recent CDC data has revealed that fertility rates have seen reductions of 11% for younger teenagers (aged 15-17) and 7% for older teenagers (aged 18-19). Conversely, the fertility rate for women aged 30 to 34 has increased by 3% in 2025. This juxtaposition further complicates the narrative surrounding fertility trends and societal choices related to family planning.
There appears to be no singular explanation for the decline in births among the younger population, as multiple factors contribute to these trends. Medical issues such as obesity, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and endometriosis are noted as potential health challenges affecting fertility rates. Environmental factors may also play a role in diminishing reproductive capacity.
Economic and societal influences are equally significant factors in this narrative. High costs associated with childcare and housing, alongside a cultural shift towards prioritising career and education, have made childbearing less appealing for many young people. Phillip Levine, an economics professor at Wellesley College, explained that evolving job market conditions and expanding leisure opportunities have also made childrearing seem less desirable.
Amid these changing dynamics, discussions surrounding fertility rates raise important questions about societal values and priorities. While some advocate for encouraging young individuals to consider early parenthood, others emphasise the importance of personal growth and economic readiness in family planning decisions.
As the conversation continues, it is clear that understanding the declining fertility rates requires a nuanced approach that considers medical, economic, and social aspects. Whether this trend signals a long-term shift or a temporary adjustment remains to be seen, but it undoubtedly reflects a changing landscape for future generations in the United States.