More women and couples are considering "preconception care," the concept of improving a woman's chances of conceiving a child, having a healthy pregnancy, and giving birth to a healthy baby even if she doesn't plan on getting pregnant just yet.
Many hospitals and clinics are offering health checkups with these goals in mind. And in July, the southern Japanese city of Fukuoka started subsidizing medical fees for blood tests that check ovarian health. The city hopes the test will become an opportunity for younger people to detect medical issues early while raising awareness about health and pregnancy.
"This is not meant to say that women need to bear children," said Fukuoka Mayor Soichiro Takashima in June, referring to the preconception care. "It's meant to design your life on your own."