Infertility trends in China: analyzing temporal changes, public demand, and demographic differences based on Baidu index.

Abstract

Background: Infertility is a critical public health issue, imposing significant psychological and financial burdens on individuals and healthcare systems. This study analyzes internet search behavior related to infertility using Baidu Index data, examining trends, demographic characteristics, and geographic patterns. The goal is to provide evidence to inform policy development and improve intervention strategies.

Methods:  Using Baidu Index data from 2015 to 2024, this study investigates search trends for "infertility" and "In vitro fertilization (IVF)" over time. It focuses on three aspects: temporal trends in search volume, demand patterns, and demographic characteristics of searchers, including age, gender, and regional differences.

Results: The implementation of the two-child policy in late 2016 resulted in a short-lived baby boom. However, searches for "infertility" sharply declined from late 2017 to early 2018 before stabilizing. Searches for "IVF" followed a similar pattern, peaking in 2017 before decreasing. The main topics searched were related to IVF costs, online consultations, treatment procedures, and hospital selection. Significant regional differences were observed, with higher search volumes in economically developed areas. Additionally, women aged 20-39 were more likely to search for infertility-related information than men.

Conclusion: This study reveals the fluctuating public interest in infertility and the significant impact of economic factors on reproductive decisions. Despite the two-child policy, the fertility decline persists, and high IVF costs continue to pose barriers to reproductive health. Regional, age, and gender variations emphasize the need for targeted public health interventions and policy support to improve accessibility to infertility services.