Between 1996 and 2013, the percentage of Governments with policies to raise fertility has also increased in developing regions, from 8 per cent in 1996 to 14 per cent in 2013), while the percentage with policies to lower fertility has remained mostly unchanged (56 per cent in 1996 and 57 per cent 2013). In 2013, the percentage of Governments with policies to lower fertility was highest in Africa (83 per cent), whereas the percentage of Governments with policies to raise fertility was highest in Europe (73 percent). Early childbearing also increases the risk of maternal death or physical impairment, and children born to young mothers tend to have higher levels of morbidity and mortality.