The graph illustrates changes in the birth rate of women across six age groups in the UK between 1973 and 2008.
Overall, women aged 25-29 had the highest birth rate throughout the period, while those aged 40 and over recorded the lowest figures. In addition, birth rates declined among younger women but increased for older age groups.
In 1973, the highest number of births was recorded among women aged 25-29, at around 140 births per 1,000 people. Although this figure fluctuated over time, it remained the highest and finished at approximately 120 in 2008. Similarly, the rate for the 20-25 age group started at about 120 but gradually decreased to around 90 by the end of the period. The figure for women under 20 also fell steadily from roughly 60 to about 40.
By contrast, birth rates among older women increased. The rate for those aged 30-35 rose consistently from about 70 to nearly 90. Likewise, the 35-39 group experienced a significant increase, almost doubling from around 35 to about 65. However, women aged 40 and over showed only a slight decline and remained the lowest overall.