Group 1 - The overall fertility rate in China is declining, with younger women (20-29 years) contributing less and older women (30-39 years) contributing more to births, leading to a net decrease in birth rates [2][3] - The average age of women seeking assisted reproductive technology (ART) has increased from the early 30s to 38 years, indicating a trend towards later motherhood [3][4] - The success rate of ART for women aged 38 is less than 50%, highlighting the challenges faced by older women in achieving pregnancy [4][23] Group 2 - The demand for ART services has increased significantly, with hospitals reporting a rise in the number of cycles performed, reflecting the trend of late marriage and childbearing [31][32] - As of October 2023, all provinces in China have included ART in health insurance, benefiting over 1 million people [32] - The industry is experiencing a "high-level stable state," with growth slowing but demand remaining strong, as more women seek ART services in urban areas [31][33] Group 3 - The psychological burden on women undergoing ART is significant, with many experiencing anxiety and stress during the treatment process, particularly during the waiting period after embryo transfer [24][30] - The focus of the ART industry is shifting from merely achieving pregnancy to ensuring the safety and health of mothers and babies, with an emphasis on reducing complications associated with high-risk pregnancies [27][30] - There is a growing trend of women actively choosing to pursue motherhood for personal reasons rather than societal pressures, indicating a shift in the perception of fertility and reproductive health [35]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the challenges and realities of assisted reproductive technology (ART) in China, emphasizing the importance of understanding fertility as a capability that may not last a lifetime, and the need for women to plan and make informed choices regarding reproduction [3][19][38]. Group 1: Assisted Reproductive Technology Overview - Assisted reproductive technology has rapidly developed over the past 40 years, with the first test-tube baby born in 1978 and the first in mainland China in 1988 [13]. - The success rate of assisted reproduction varies significantly with age, with women over 35 facing increased challenges in conceiving [15][17]. - The complete assisted reproductive cycle, including ovulation induction, egg retrieval, embryo transfer, and pregnancy maintenance, typically takes two to three months [8]. Group 2: Patient Demographics and Trends - There is a growing trend of older couples seeking ART services due to late marriage and childbearing, with many individuals unaware of the biological limitations of fertility [15][19]. - The incidence of infertility in China has increased from 12% in 2007 to 18% in 2020, highlighting a rising public health concern [28]. Group 3: Patient Experiences and Challenges - Many patients experience emotional and psychological stress during the ART process, often leading to anxiety about their fertility metrics [17][36]. - The article illustrates various patient stories, including those who have successfully conceived and those who have faced challenges, emphasizing the emotional journey involved in ART [19][38]. Group 4: Male Involvement in Fertility - Male fertility issues account for at least 30% of infertility cases, yet men often play a minimal role in the ART process [26][28]. - The article stresses the importance of male partners being actively involved in the fertility journey, as their support can significantly impact the emotional well-being of their partners [28]. Group 5: Medical and Social Perspectives on Infertility - The definition of infertility is complex, as many individuals diagnosed with infertility may not have other health issues, raising questions about the medicalization of fertility challenges [31][35]. - Cultural perceptions of fertility and motherhood can add pressure to women, influencing their emotional responses to infertility [36].

Core Viewpoint - Changchun High-tech Industry (Group) Co., Ltd. announced the approval of its long-acting follicle-stimulating hormone injection, Jin Sai Jia®, which offers a new option for controlled ovarian stimulation in assisted reproductive technology [1][2]. Group 1 - Jin Sai Jia® has been approved for use in conjunction with gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonists to induce multiple follicle development, replacing the need for daily injections with a single subcutaneous injection lasting seven days [1][2]. - The demand for assisted reproductive technology has been increasing, with the launch of the first domestically developed recombinant follicle-stimulating hormone in China, Jin Sai Heng®, in 2015, which required daily injections [1][2]. - The approval of Jin Sai Jia® will enhance the company's product portfolio in women's health, creating a complete range of recombinant follicle-stimulating hormone products, including powder, short-acting, and long-acting formulations [2]. Group 2 - Jin Sai Jia® utilizes gene fusion technology to achieve long-acting effects, significantly reducing the frequency of administration compared to short-acting formulations [2]. - The dosage of Jin Sai Jia® is customized based on age and weight, minimizing the risk of injection errors and improving patient compliance and treatment efficiency [2]. - Clinical trial results from Phase II and III indicate that Jin Sai Jia® demonstrates excellent efficacy and safety [2].

Core Viewpoint - The seminar aimed to discuss the construction of a fertility-friendly society, focusing on policy support, optimization of medical services, and the standardized development of assisted reproductive technology [1][19]. Policy Support - The creation of a fertility-friendly society requires reducing the costs of childbirth, upbringing, and education, while fostering a respectful social environment for childbirth [2]. - Key policy recommendations include improving maternity insurance, establishing maternity subsidies, providing tax deductions, housing support, and enhancing childcare services [2]. Assisted Reproductive Technology - The importance of standardizing assisted reproductive technology (ART) was emphasized, with a call for enhanced public education on scientific pregnancy concepts and strict regulatory oversight [6]. - All 31 provinces have included relevant ART technologies in their medical insurance reimbursement scope, although the specifics vary by region due to economic and technical differences [9]. Research and Development - A report was presented on the establishment of a comprehensive assisted reproductive service system, utilizing AI and multi-dimensional social evaluation perspectives to enhance service quality and success rates [12]. - Innovations in ART, such as targeted sperm medications and smart embryo laboratories, are being pursued to address infertility challenges [16]. Public Awareness and Education - There is a need for targeted public education strategies to improve awareness of reproductive health, particularly among younger and older demographics [17]. - The establishment of diverse educational channels, especially through new media, is crucial for dispelling misconceptions about ART [18]. Collaborative Efforts - The seminar highlighted the importance of collaboration among hospitals and healthcare providers to enhance the quality of reproductive health services and address the challenges faced by patients in remote areas [18].