The number of marriage registrations has dropped significantly as couples wait for the more convenient application procedures to take effect, reports New Express News.

Beginning October 1, the Marriage Registration Regulations will waive the requirements for "permits from work units" and mandatory premarital physical examinations. The Dongshan District Civil Affairs Bureau's Marriage Registration Office used to receive dozens of betrothed couples a day but now no more than 10 visit daily. All marriage registration offices in Guangzhou are experiencing a similar lull.

"Starting in October, marriage registration can be completed within an hour," said bureau employee Zhang, who joked that they were enjoying "the calm before the storm".

While the public welcome the new, more convenient registration process, doctors worry too many young couples will unwisely skip the physical examinations before getting married.

Many people are diagnosed as carriers of the hepatitis B virus, for example, in premarital physical examinations. Without proper treatment, it can cause infertility or be transmitted to offspring. Be responsible and have a physical even if the law does not require it, urged Dr Chen Xulie.

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