We systematically analyzed the progress on basic research in fetal medicine in China funded by National Natural Science Foundation of China since 1987.Aiming to promote basic research in fetal medicine,a series of effective measures has been implemented by National Natural Science Foundation of China in recent years,such as defining specific research goals and keywords under the application code of fetal medicine,launching emergent management projects and organizing strategic discussion with experts.Despite the wide gap between domestic and foreign researches,we have some advantages and have already made great achievements.Here are some suggestions on future basic research in fetal medicine from the perspective of funding application in China.

We provide an overview of the detailed information on the application and fundings of the National Natural Science Foundation of China in reproductive system/perinatology/neonatology in 2018 to facilitate future applications for researchers and physicians in this area in 2019.In-depth analysis was performed from different aspects among all the applications;areas for improving in the format and compiling of the application form were pointed out together with practical suggestions;possible interesting topics in future application were also implicated.