Vietnam Ministry of Health advises having two children before age 35

Vietnam's Ministry of Health is encouraging couples to have two children before the age of 35 to address declining fertility rates. The total fertility rate in Vietnam has dropped from 2.11 children per woman in 2021 to approximately 1.91 in 2024, falling below the replacement level.

Medical experts note that while 35 is not a biological deadline, fertility and egg quality typically begin to decline around age 32 and more rapidly after 37. This decline increases the risk of chromosomal abnormalities and miscarriage. Data from reproductive assistance treatments shows that successful IVF birth rates drop significantly as women move from the 35–37 age group into their 40s.

Health officials emphasize that this recommendation is intended to help individuals proactively plan their reproductive lives rather than acting as a mandate. On a macro level, the government aims to mitigate the long-term impacts of low birth rates, such as a shrinking workforce and accelerated population aging, while respecting individual reproductive autonomy.