Transformation of fertility in Slovakia in time and space

Fertility in Slovakia has been undergoing significant, and in many aspects historically unique transformational changes for almost three decades. The main features include a decrease in the intensity of childbearing, changes in the fertility tempo in the context of postponement transition, as well as in the age concentration of reproduction and the legitimacy of children. These changes appear to be characterized by significant temporal and spatial differences. The main aim of the paper is to analyze these transformational changes in the fertility process at the district level in two time sections. Based on the acquired knowledge, we then try to create a typology of districts of Slovakia in terms of intensity, timing (age distribution) and the legitimacy of fertility. In this way, we try to contribute to the current evaluation of the current state, the identification of spatial differences and possible changes in time, which in such a comprehensive form have not yet been implemented at the regional level in Slovakia. Using an anonymised primary database from childbirth surveys, indicators were constructed for two 5-year periods presenting fertility quantum and tempo, contributions of selected age groups to total fertility rates, as well as the legitimacy of children born. Subsequently, using the factor and cluster method, a typology of districts of Slovakia was created in terms of the state of the fertility process in the first half of the 90s and at present.