In a progressive move, Japan's Tokyo Metropolitan Government has decided to subsidize the cost of painless childbirth. This initiative highlights the government's commitment to making childbirth a less strenuous process for women, in keeping with modern practices. The details of how the scheme will work and the amount of subsidy provided are yet to be unveiled.

Within Japan, concerns about the pain and struggles associated with childbirth are prevalent and is often tied to the declining fertility rate. This initiative by the local Tokyo government is seen as a breakthrough, recognising women's choice to have a less painful childbirth and encouraging more women to consider motherhood.

In countries like the U.S. and EU, epidural anesthesia for painless labor and childbirth is widely practiced and is often covered at least in part by health insurance. Japan's move to subsidize this service brings the nation in line with these international standards and practices.