In China, having a child without being married is a journey filled with obstacles. Officially, single women do not have access to assisted reproductive technology. However, a parallel market operates in the shadows to meet a real demand, balancing the desire for a child, legal constraints, and discreet solutions.
In her small workshop in Beijing, 41-year-old single mother Guo Jia is considering having a second child. Alone, without necessarily waiting to find someone. “If I don’t find the right partner or good genes, I could also opt for IVF, assisted reproductive technology,” she declares. She takes full responsibility for this option. However, a harsh reality soon emerges. According to her, it all depends on money, as access to these techniques in China is strictly regulated. Without a marriage certificate, it is impossible to go through public hospitals. Even when there are legal alternatives, they remain limited, often opaque, and overwhelmed. So, some women bypass the system.
In a clandestine assisted reproduction agency, an agent explains the procedure: “We offer Chinese and foreign donors, according to your preferences: height, level of education, appearance, skin color, geographical origin… I will send you the profiles, and then you can discuss with the donor, ask your questions, see if they suit you.” This process resembles recruitment, with a complete medical journey and a high price tag – the total cost amounts to 138,000 yuan, approximately 17,450 euros, excluding donor fees.
Context: The article discusses the challenges single women face in accessing assisted reproductive technology in China and the emergence of a parallel market to meet their needs.
Fact Check: The article accurately reflects the legal and social challenges faced by single women seeking assisted reproduction in China.
