Starting a family in China is a struggle for some

Chinese couples are seeking medical help to overcome their difficulties in conceiving babies. Photo: AFP

On A recent afternoon, a visitor from northern China took a smoke break outside the Beijing Perfect Family Hospital. Cigarettes were one reason he had come to the capital: He reckons his nicotine habit played a part in damaging his fertility.

The 38-year-old construction businessman, who asked to be identified by his last name, Zhang, worked hard to build a business with his wife, who is 35.