Factors Influencing Fertility Preferences Among Women of Reproductive Age: Evidence from a Cross-Sectional Study in Nigeria

Abstract Aim Nigeria continues to experience high fertility rates despite increasing awareness of family planning programs. This high fertility rate is largely sustained by a strong preference for children. Understanding fertility preferences and their determinants is vital for designing effective reproductive health policies. Therefore, this study analyses the socioeconomic and demographic factors influencing fertility preferences among women aged 15–49. Subject and Methods Data from a survey of 4,703 women categorised preferences into wanting more children, undecided, or wanting no more children. Descriptive statistics and multinomial logistic regression models were used, with Adjusted odds ratios (AORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) reported. Results These show significant associations with age, religion, education, residence, geopolitical zone, parity, and contraceptive use ( p < 0.05). Women with primary education, those practicing Islam, and those living in middle wealth index households were significantly more likely to want additional children, while women aged 35 and over (AOR = 0.41; 95% CI = 0.26–0.65), those with three or more children, and those using contraceptives (AOR = 0.78; 95% CI = 0.60–0.96) showed lower preferences for more children. Rural women were often undecided, whereas higher education and contraceptive use correlated with a reduced preference for additional children. Conclusion Younger age, lower parity, lower education, and middle household wealth are key factors that influence a higher preference for fertility. Fertility preferences vary regionally, being lower in South-South and Southwestern Nigeria. Addressing these disparities through education, culturally sensitive family planning programs, and equitable access to reproductive health services could support women in making informed and autonomous reproductive decisions.