The Latin American region has experienced some demographic changes that enable a
discussion on the likelihood of the beginning of a second demographic transition in several
countries in the region. In this vein, there are several issues associated with recent changes.
For example, there is the debate regarding a possible cohabitation boom with components
different from the traditional cohabitation in Latin America (Esteve, Lesthaeghe, and
Lopez-Gay, 2012). The pattern of early sexual initiation, childbearing, and union formation
and the chances of a possible break up is discussed by Bozon, Gayet, and Barrientos
(2009). Esteve, López-Ruiz, and Spijker (2013) discuss the paradox of union formation
stability with education expansion in the region. Regarding fertility trends in the region,
Cavenaghi and Alves (2009) discuss the most recent fertility patterns based on DHS
surveys applied in several countries in the region. More associated with fertility and the
postponement of first childbearing, Rosero-Bixby, Castro-Martín, and Martín-Garcia
(2009) emphasize the role of college education in the retreat of early and universal
childbearing. The focus of this paper will deviate from the discussion about the likelihood
of a second demographic transition in the region, in order to concentrate in the future
chances of below replacement fertility in some countries, with special attention to
educational expansion.