China's Prenatal Policy for Pensioners Sparks Outrage, Raises Questions on Birth Rate Push

• China's new health policy in Beijing offers reimbursement for prenatal exams to pensioners, sparking widespread ridicule and debate.
• The policy, effective January 1, 2026, increases reimbursement from 3,000 to 10,000 yuan and includes self-employed and pensioners under Beijing's social insurance.
• The inclusion of 'pensioners' in the policy has been criticized as impractical, given the average menopause age for Chinese women is around 49.
• This move is seen as part of China's broader efforts to combat a declining birth rate and aging population, following the end of the one-child policy.
• Other measures include increased childcare assistance, encouraging student relationships, and a planned 13% VAT on condoms and contraceptives from 2026.

Why It Matters: China's controversial prenatal policy for pensioners highlights its desperate measures to boost a falling birth rate.