Tokyo baby hatch used for the first time since its launch on March 31, marking a pivotal step in Japan’s efforts to protect infant lives. San-ikukai Hospital in Sumida Ward confirmed that a baby was anonymously left in its care, according to a source familiar with the matter.
This makes San-ikukai the second medical institution in Japan to operate a baby hatch system, following Jikei Hospital in Kumamoto, which introduced the service in 2007. The initiative offers distressed parents a safe and anonymous way to relinquish infants they feel unable to raise.
The hospital opened the baby hatch to serve as a “last line of defense” for newborns at risk. The facility’s decision came in response to a rise in unplanned pregnancies, isolated births, and tragic cases of infant abandonment in the capital.
In addition to the baby hatch, the hospital operates a confidential birth system. This program allows women to give birth without disclosing their identities—except to the hospital staff—ensuring privacy while still providing medical care and child protection.
The baby hatch accepts infants up to four weeks old. Clear instructions are available on the hospital’s website, outlining how the process works and what parents should consider before leaving a child. Once a baby is left, hospital staff respond within one minute to ensure the child’s safety and then contact the relevant child welfare center.
As Tokyo baby hatch used becomes a reality, the Tokyo metropolitan government has announced plans to launch a special verification committee. This body will monitor and evaluate the operation to ensure the welfare of all children involved.
