China's Youth Embrace "Pre-Set" Maternity Photos Amid Declining Birth Rates

A new trend has emerged among young, unmarried women in China: taking maternity photos with fake bellies. This "pre-set photoshoot" phenomenon reflects a desire to capture significant life moments while still at their peak beauty, as many women fear the physical changes of pregnancy.

Image: scmp.com

This trend has sparked debate, particularly among older generations who view premarital pregnancy as taboo. However, it also mirrors broader societal shifts in China, where marriage and birth rates are declining. In the first nine months of 2024, only 4.75 million couples registered marriages, according to the Ministry of Civil Affairs.

The "pre-set maternity photo" craze gained national attention after a popular influencer, "Meizi Gege," shared her experience on social media. Her photos, showcasing her slender figure with a fake belly, sparked a wave of imitations.

Easy Access and Growing Popularity

"Pre-set" maternity photos are surprisingly easy to achieve. Fake bellies are readily available online in various sizes and textures, allowing women to simulate different stages of pregnancy. This trend is fueled by a desire to ensure beautiful maternity photos, regardless of potential body changes later in pregnancy.

Concerns and Criticisms

However, critics argue that these photos perpetuate unrealistic beauty standards, emphasizing "white, skinny, and young" ideals. This can create anxiety and pressure on women to maintain a youthful appearance during pregnancy, an expectation that is often unattainable.

Humor and Social Commentary

The trend has also sparked humorous online discussions, with some netizens suggesting taking photos for future birthdays or even funerals to appear younger later in life. This playful commentary reflects a broader societal shift towards self-expression and embracing unique life experiences.