©Nathan Dumlao via Unsplash
France declares war on declining birth rates and offers an ambitious response to its fertility crisis. Faced with the continuing decline in births, the government is preparing to launch a series of initiatives: no fewer than 16 key measures, starting with equitable access to information for every citizen.
These measures include a personalized message sent to all young adults aged 29, with the aim of supporting the 3 million French people directly concerned and giving everyone the means to better understand and protect their reproductive health.
These measures are in line with studies carried out in recent years on the causes of infertility, which are increasingly linked to environmental factors, lifestyle and the decline in the average age of childbirth.
The letter to 29-year-olds
A targeted communication to all 29-year-olds is scheduled for late summer 2026. The message is designed to clarify issues that are often unclear or avoided:
- medically assisted reproduction
- conservation of reproductive cells (gametes)
- contraception
- sexual health
The idea is simple: to provide clear, no-pressure information, so that everyone can make informed decisions.
An online fertility portal, national information campaigns and new educational materials for schools will also be introduced, focusing on prevention, age-related risks and gynecological pathologies that can affect the chances of having children.
Health care
Another key issue is access to healthcare. In France today, around one couple in eight has difficulty conceiving, often due to late diagnosis and long waiting lists. This is why the authorities want to increase the number of egg freezing clinics - from 40 to 70 by 2028 - with services that will remain free of charge, even if private providers are included.
In addition, the aim is to improve the detection of widespread but still little-known pathologies, such as endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome. However, a number of questions remain unanswered, including those relating to costs, financial support and recognition of these conditions as chronic diseases.
Research
Research is becoming increasingly important. In recent years, over 30 million euros have been invested in research into fertility and reproductive health. New resources are also needed to better understand the impact of environmental factors, from pollutants to endocrine disruptors.
At the same time, problems relating to maternal and infant health are emerging, with indicators below the European average. A complete register of births is therefore envisaged as from 2027, while a system for analyzing adverse events will be put in place to improve care for mothers and newborns as from 2026.
(©GreenMe 2026/Managing Editor: Selma Keshkire - The Press Junction/Picture: ©picture alliance/dpa/dpa-POOL | Peter Kneffel)