Work

Mapping Lifecourse Reproductive Trajectories in a Nationally Representative Cohort of U.S. Women

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Reproductive timing and experiences vary substantially among U.S. women, yet few studies have systematically classified reproductive life course trajectories in nationally representative, longitudinal cohorts. Using data from Waves I–V of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health (Add Health), we constructed reproductive trajectories based on age at menarche, timing of first birth, total parity, reproductive lifespan, and pregnancy-related complications. Variables were harmonized and temporally aligned to accommodate changes in survey structure across waves, and latent class analysis identified distinct reproductive patterns. These trajectories capture meaningful variation in reproductive timing and intensity that is hypothesized to be biologically relevant for chronic disease risk in midlife. This work is novel in its application to a large, nationally representative sample with rich longitudinal reproductive histories. The resulting classifications provide a foundation for ongoing research linking reproductive life course patterns to molecular indicators of aging and long-term health outcomes in women.

Source: Innovation in Aging

DOI: 10.1093/geroni/igaf122.4161

Authors: Brianah McCoy, Lauren Gaydosh

Institution: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Language: English

Topic: Reproductive Health and Contraception

Subfield: Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,977