Gender differentials in family size among Ghanaian couples

Using data from the Ghana Demographic and Health Survey (GDHS) of 1988, the present study focuses on the impact of demographic, social, economic and interpersonal factors on family size among Ghanaian couples. The results of our study indicate that age at first marriage is a significant factor in fertility levels for wives but not for husbands. Furthermore, there is an inverse relationship between a mother's education and fertility, although the relationship between a husband's education and family size is not significant. Nonetheless, consistent with previous research, the husband's approval of the use of family planning plays a significant role in the couple's fertility behavior. In addition to increasing educational opportunities for women, it is suggested that men should be fully integrated into family planning programs in Ghana.