Sweden is witnessing a historic shift in its birth patterns. In 2024, just 99,000 children were born—the lowest number since 2003.
This continues a long-term decline in fertility, though the drop slowed slightly compared to the sharper falls in 2022 and 2023.
Older Mothers, Higher Risks
The average age of first-time mothers has surpassed 30 for the first time—reaching 30.1 years nationally.
Stockholm County leads with the oldest first-time mothers at 31.5 years. Gävleborg County has the youngest, at 28.5 years.
Overall, Swedish women giving birth in 2024 averaged 31.6 years old. Over 5% were aged 40 or older.
“Older maternal age increases risks like gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and cesarean delivery,” says Dr. Ängla Mantel, physician and associate professor at Karolinska Institutet (KI).
Rising Obesity Adds Pressure
Nearly half (47%) of expectant mothers in Sweden are now overweight or obese—almost double the rate in the 1990s.
Regional disparities are stark:
– Stockholm: 39% overweight or obese
– Blekinge: 54%
“This is one of the biggest risk shifts we’ve seen,” Mantel warns. “It affects pregnancy, delivery, and even child health.”
Caesarean Sections on the Rise
In 2024, 20% of births were by caesarean section—up from previous years. Emergency caesareans made up the majority.
Mantel attributes this partly to rising maternal age and BMI—but also to evolving clinical practices in obstetric care.
Implications for Healthcare and Policy
These trends place growing demands on Sweden’s maternal and neonatal healthcare systems.
With fewer births but more complex pregnancies, strategic investments in perinatal care, preventive health, and regional equity are urgently needed.
As Sweden’s demographic landscape evolves, policymakers and healthcare leaders must adapt—ensuring safety, sustainability, and support for all families.
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