In recent years, China has witnessed a growing emphasis on protecting women’s fertility. Multiple local governments have stepped up their efforts, drawing public attention to this crucial issue.
On November 25, 2024, Zhijiang City, Hubei Province, released a reply letter regarding a proposal, stressing the need to enhance publicity on eugenics, prenatal and postnatal care, and reproductive health. The city aims to actively promote natural childbirth and reduce cesarean section rates. Just two days later, the National Health Commission held a significant conference on implementing fertility support policies. Yichang City’s vice mayor shared their successful experiences in increasing birth numbers. Meanwhile, cities like Wenzhou have been actively involved in public welfare activities such as the “Female Fertility Protection Express” to raise public awareness.
However, the situation is complex. A researcher, Cao Yanhua, points out that globally, fertility is declining due to various factors, and in China, the phenomena of “not wanting to have children” and “being unable to have children” are becoming more prominent. Social changes, including diverse values and the delay in marriage and childbearing ages, have had a significant impact. The average age at first marriage and first childbearing for Chinese women has risen over the past decade, leading to a shorter childbearing period and increased risks of infertility and other pregnancy-related issues. Even with policies like the three-child policy, the actual willingness to have children remains low, with significant differences among different age groups and regions.
On the other hand, the “being unable to have children” group is also a concern. Infertile individuals, those with malignant diseases, and single people face difficulties. Statistics show a large number of infertile patients in China, and issues like declining sperm quality in men and increasing infertility rates among professional women are prevalent. Additionally, the high rate of induced abortions among young and unmarried women reflects a lack of sex education and service guarantees. To address these challenges, local governments are taking measures such as establishing ovarian tissue cryopreservation centers and expanding contraceptive distribution. Cao Yanhua also suggests comprehensive strategies including strengthening top-level design, improving healthcare services, protecting male fertility, and reforming education and insurance policies to reverse the downward trend in fertility and ensure the sustainable development of the population.
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