Russia’s War on Ukraine Puts Women Off Having Children — and That Could Spell Economic Disaster

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine, now in its fourth year, is taking a profound toll not just on lives and infrastructure, but on the country’s demographic future. Recent reports indicate that the war is discouraging many women from having children, raising concerns that Ukraine may face a demographic and economic crisis long after the fighting ends.
Surveys conducted in war-affected regions suggest a sharp decline in fertility intentions among women of childbearing age. Fear of violence, displacement, economic uncertainty, and the lack of access to healthcare and basic services have combined to create what experts describe as a “demographic shock.” Many young couples say they are postponing or abandoning plans to start families amid constant insecurity.
A Generation Delayed
Before the invasion, Ukraine’s birth rate was already among Europe’s lowest, a reflection of decades of economic challenges and emigration. Now, the war has compounded the problem. Hospitals have been damaged or destroyed, prenatal care is disrupted, and access to routine vaccinations and maternal services has been limited in conflict zones. Women fleeing conflict zones often prioritize safety and survival over family planning.
Demographers warn that the impact could be long-lasting. “Even a few years of suppressed fertility can create a ripple effect for decades,” says Dr. Olena Hrytsenko, a Ukrainian population expert. “Ukraine risks losing an entire generation of children, which will affect the labor force, productivity, and social systems in the years ahead.”
Economic Implications
A declining population poses severe economic risks. With fewer young people entering the workforce, Ukraine could face labor shortages just as the country will need skilled workers to rebuild infrastructure and revive its economy. A shrinking population could also increase the burden on social services and pensions, potentially stifling post-war recovery.
Analysts say that the war’s demographic impact could exacerbate a “brain drain” already intensified by emigration. Many highly educated Ukrainians, especially women, have left the country for safety and employment opportunities abroad. If birth rates continue to fall, the combination of low domestic labor supply and continued emigration could slow reconstruction efforts and hinder economic growth for decades.
Psychological and Social Factors
The decline in fertility is not just about physical safety. Psychological stress plays a major role. Constant exposure to violence, uncertainty about the future, and the trauma of displacement reduce the desire and confidence to raise children. Social support networks have been fractured by mass displacement, leaving young families without the extended family help traditionally relied upon for childcare.
In addition, widespread economic instability — including job losses, inflation, and housing shortages — has made childbearing seem risky or even impossible for many. Surveys show that women often cite financial insecurity and lack of medical services as key reasons for postponing pregnancy.
Policy Responses and Challenges
Ukrainian authorities and international organizations have recognized the demographic impact but face significant challenges. Efforts to maintain maternal and child healthcare, provide psychological support, and deliver social assistance to displaced families are ongoing but strained. Experts argue that reversing fertility declines will require long-term strategies to restore security, economic stability, and access to healthcare.
Some proposals include incentives for families to have children, such as financial support, childcare assistance, and housing programs. However, without peace and stability, experts warn that these measures may have limited effect.
Looking Ahead
The war’s demographic consequences are a stark reminder that conflicts reshape societies far beyond immediate casualties. Ukraine’s declining fertility could have lasting effects on its economy, social structures, and ability to recover from the war. Policymakers face the daunting task of supporting families, rebuilding infrastructure, and ensuring that the population can sustain itself in a post-war future.
As women delay or forego childbirth in the shadow of war, the country’s long-term economic and social stability hangs in the balance. Without targeted interventions, Ukraine could face a generational and demographic crisis, underscoring that the costs of conflict extend far beyond the battlefield.