The peculiarities of reproductive behavior of modern women in a megalopolis (using the example of St. Petersburg).

Modern trends dictate that women should not strive to have a large family or postpone the stage of motherhood as late as possible. The study of the reproductive behavior of megalopolis women is becoming relevant in the context of the depopulation of the nation and the development of demographic programs aimed at expanding the reproduction of the population. The purpose of the study: to establish the features of reproductive behavior of modern women in a megalopolis. Materials and methods. A special form «Questionnaire for assessing women’s reproductive attitudes» has been developed. An anonymous survey of 560 women of reproductive age in St. Petersburg was conducted on the basis of women’s consultations in St. Petersburg. Statistical processing was carried out in the MS Office-2016 program (Word, Excel). Results. The study showed that modern megalopolis women are focused on late motherhood and lack of commitment to highefficiency contraceptive methods. A high dependence of reproductive attitudes on the financial situation, attitude to religion and the number of available children was revealed. Most women plan no more than two children, attributing their decision to financial difficulties, social instability and housing problems. One in ten respondents cited dissatisfaction with their health and age as the reason for not having enough children. Conclusions. To expand the reproduction of the population, it is necessary to develop sanitary and educational programs for the development of schools of conscious motherhood, increase the availability and quality of medical services and reproductive screening. Against the background of improving health-saving technologies, it is important to form a positive attitude of society towards having many children through cultural, educational and social tools that create optimal material conditions for raising children.