Russia has unveiled new health guidelines that recommend referring women who express no desire to have children to psychologists.
The policy forms part of broader reproductive health checks introduced by the country’s health ministry, under which medical professionals are expected to ask women about their intentions regarding childbirth.
Where a patient indicates no interest in having children, the guidelines advise that she be referred to a medical psychologist for counselling aimed at encouraging a more positive outlook toward parenthood.
The measures come against the backdrop of a prolonged demographic decline that has been a major concern for President Vladimir Putin throughout his more than two decades in power.
The situation has been further compounded by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which has seen large numbers of young men deployed to the front lines, intensifying population pressures.
Although the recommendations were approved in late February, they only gained attention after being reported by state media this week.
The Kremlin has consistently framed the country’s shrinking population as a critical national issue, with Putin warning in 2024 that Russia could face existential risks if birth rates are not increased.
Current estimates place Russia’s fertility rate at about 1.4 children per woman, well below the 2.1 level widely regarded by demographers as necessary to maintain population stability.
In response to the trend, authorities in recent years have tightened abortion regulations and introduced legislation banning what is described as “child-free propaganda.”
At the same time, the government has promoted larger families as a national priority, offering various financial incentives and social benefits to encourage higher birth rates.
