Russia to Refer Women Not Wanting Children to Psychologists

The Russian Health Ministry has introduced new guidelines that will require doctors to refer women who express a desire not to have children to psychologists. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to combat Russia's demographic crisis, particularly under President Vladimir Putin's administration, which has been concerned about the country's dwindling birth rate.

Over the past four years, Russia has lost hundreds of thousands of young men due to the conflict in Ukraine, exacerbating the demographic issue. The birth rate in Russia has fallen to around 1.4 children per woman, significantly below the 2.1 children per woman needed to maintain population stability.

The guidelines, expected to be approved by late February, aim to foster a more positive attitude towards childbirth among women. The Kremlin has previously implemented stricter abortion laws and has promoted large families as national heroes, offering various financial and social benefits to encourage higher birth rates.