In a significant policy shift aimed at encouraging childbirth, China has announced that all tertiary-level hospitals must provide epidural anaesthesia during labour by the end of 2025, with a deadline of 2027 for secondary hospitals.
The move is part of broader efforts to promote a “friendly childbearing environment” as the country grapples with a continued decline in birth rates.
According to a recent statement by China’s National Health Commission (NHC), all tertiary hospitals—those with more than 500 beds—are required to offer epidural anaesthesia services by the close of 2025. Secondary hospitals, which have over 100 beds, are to follow suit by 2027. The new guidelines form part of a wider national strategy to improve the quality and comfort of maternal care.
Currently, only around 30% of women in China receive pain relief during childbirth, a stark contrast to rates in developed countries. In comparison, epidural usage during labour is reported at over 70% in countries like France, the United States, and Canada. The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends epidural anaesthesia for healthy pregnant women who request pain relief, noting its efficacy and safety when properly administered.
“This measure will improve the comfort level and security of medical services,” the NHC said, “and further enhance people’s sense of happiness while promoting a childbearing-friendly atmosphere.”
The move comes as Chinese authorities intensify efforts to reverse a worrying demographic trend. China’s population fell for the third year in a row in 2024, raising concerns among experts about the long-term economic and social implications of a shrinking and ageing population. With fewer couples opting to marry or have children, the government is focusing on healthcare reforms and social policies to support prospective parents.
As part of these efforts, several provinces have begun to incorporate childbirth anaesthesia costs into public health insurance schemes. Additionally, in June, health officials in Sichuan province proposed extending marriage leave to 25 days and maternity leave to 150 days, reinforcing efforts to create a more fertility-friendly society.
High childcare costs, economic uncertainty, and career pressures continue to weigh heavily on young Chinese citizens, many of whom are reluctant to start families. Authorities hope that improved maternal healthcare and supportive social policies will help ease some of these concerns and contribute to stabilising the country’s demographic trajectory.
Melissa Enoch
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