The Iranian Journal of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Infertility

The Iranian Journal of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Infertility

Attitudes, Preferences, and Motivations for Childbearing among Faculty Members of Selected Medical Sciences Universities in Iran, 2023: A Gender-Based Cross-Sectional Study

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Zahra Abbaspour 1
Poorandokht Afshari 2
Parvin Abedi 1
Mehrnoush Zakerkish 3
Maryam Beheshtinasab 4
1 Professor, Department of Midwifery, Reproductive Health Promotion Research Center, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.
2 Assistant Professor, Department of Midwifery, Menopause Andropause Research Center, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.
3 Professor, Department of Internal Medicine, Diabetes Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.
4 Instructor, Department of Midwifery, Reproductive Health Promotion Research Center, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.
10.22038/ijogi.2026.93072.6615
Abstract
Introduction: Values related to childbearing have undergone substantial changes in recent years, with individualism emerging as a fundamental factor contributing to fertility decline. This study was performed with aim to explore the attitudes, motivations, and reproductive preferences of academic staff at selected Iranian medical universities.
Methods: This descriptive-analytical study with a cross-sectional design was carried out in 2023 on a total of 600 academic faculty members from selected universities of medical sciences in Iran. A stratified random sampling method was employed to recruit participants, who were then categorized into two gender-based groups, each comprising 300 females and 300 males. To gather the required data, three instruments were utilized: a demographic characteristics questionnaire, the Attitude toward Fertility and Childbearing Scale (AFCS), and Miller's Reproductive Motivations and Preferences Questionnaire. The data were collected through a secure web-based platform (online survey). Data were analyzed using SPSS software (version 23.0) and independent t-test and chi-square test. P<0.05 was considered significant.
Results: The findings showed a statistically significant difference between female and male faculty members in terms of fertility attitudes, motivations, and preferences (p<0.001). Men had more positive attitudes toward childbearing, whereas women showed a greater tendency to postpone childbearing. Regarding fertility motivations, both groups reported relatively high levels of positive motivations; however, negative motivations were more prevalent among women. In terms of fertility preferences, the majority of respondents preferred to have two children, and the overall willingness to have children was higher among men than women. No statistically significant difference was observed between the two groups in the interval between marriage and the birth of the first child (p=0.148).
Conclusion: Based on the findings, it is recommended that university and health policymakers implement programs aimed at reducing barriers to childbearing among faculty members, particularly women. These programs should include occupational support, work–family balance policies, and enhanced childcare services.
Keywords
Childbearing
Faculty Members
Fertility Preference
Motivation
Reproductive Behavior
Subjects
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The Iranian Journal of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Infertility
Volume 29, Issue 3
May 2026
Pages 19-34