Motherhood Hospitals organized a highly successful Continuing Medical Education (MED – CON) event focused on the escalating prevalence of recurrent pregnancy losses. The conference showcased esteemed global experts, Prof. Robert John Aitken, Emeritus Laureate Professor at the University of Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia, and Prof.  Henriette Svarre Nielsen, Chair Professor OBGYN, Dept of Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Denmark. The event, held on December 3^rd 2023, at the Chancery Pavilion Bengaluru, witnessed the participation of 160  healthcare professionals.

The MED-CON commenced with a warm welcome speech by Dr. Rashmi Patil Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Laparoscopic Surgery and infertility Specialist Banashankari, Bangalore illuminated the complexities surrounding Recurrent Pregnancy Loss (RPL), underscoring its profound implications for the physical and mental well-being of women.

Dr. Mirudhubashini Govindarajan, Clinical Director, Women’s Center by Motherhood, Coimbatore, stated, “Recurrent pregnancy loss profoundly impacts women’s well-being, but new research brings hope. Breakthroughs in understanding microbiomes and advancements like the Sperm DNA Fragmentation Index (DFI) test offer targeted interventions and personalized care. We are committed to staying at the forefront of these advancements, empowering women, and increasing the chances of successful pregnancies. We aim to push the boundaries of knowledge, explore new frontiers, and offer renewed hope to those affected by recurrent pregnancy loss.”

A pivotal moment during the event was the presentation by Prof. Henriette Svarre Nielsen, where she shared groundbreaking research on the role of microbiomes in female reproduction and their potential connection to recurrent pregnancy losses.

Dr Henriette Svarre Nielsen, Chair Professor OBGYN, Dept of Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Denmark further adds, the altered microbial community in the uterine cavity and how it affects the entire reproductive process. Research hints that these microorganisms might affect the immune system locally and influence the chances of having a baby. Exploring how the uterine microbiome and endometrium interact could reveal important information about women’s reproductive well-being and lead to better treatments. “Dr. Nielson emphasized that alterations in the composition of microbiomes within the human body can significantly affect fertility, pregnancy, and ultimately lead to recurrent pregnancy losses.

Addressing the virtual audience, Prof. Robert John Aitken, delved into the impact of male factor on recurrent pregnancy losses in women. He highlighted the effects of male reproductive aging and the decreasing fertility rate among men aged 37 and above, underscoring that age-related fertility issues in the male remains a significant challenge, requiring immediate attention.

The MED – CON  also spotlighted technological advancements, including the Sperm DFI Test, offering hope for individuals grappling with recurrent pregnancy losses. This test evaluates the extent of DNA damage in sperm, a crucial factor in male fertility and embryo development. By identifying potential sperm damage and assessing semen quality, the Sperm DNA fragmentation index DFI test has become a vital diagnostic tool, opening new avenues for research and treatment.

Dr. Asha Baxi, Senior Lead Consultant – Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproductive Medicine, Vice President FOGSI – West Zone, Treasurer – ISAR addressed “the APLA/ Auto-Immune Factor within the intricate landscape of immunology, the presence and implications of APLA (Antiphospholipid Antibody) stand as both a challenge and a key to unlocking deeper insights into autoimmune dynamics, shedding light on the nuanced facets of health and well-being”.

Dr. Ramya Jayaram added, “Abnormalities in the uterus can pose significant challenges to conception and carrying a pregnancy to term. However, with advancements in technology, medical and surgical procedures we have powerful tools to overcome this condition. By leveraging cutting-edge techniques, personalized treatments, and comprehensive counseling, we can empower individuals and couples to beat uterine factor infertility and increase their chances of successful pregnancies. At Women’s Center by Motherhood, we are committed to providing the latest advancements and comprehensive care to help individuals overcome the hurdles of uterine factor infertility and achieve their dreams of parenthood.”

The MED-CON provided a dynamic platform for experts to exchange knowledge, discuss groundbreaking research, and explore potential treatment solutions for recurrent pregnancy losses. Women Centre by Motherhood remains steadfast in advancing reproductive healthcare and supporting individuals and couples facing the challenges of recurrent pregnancy losses.

As the event concluded, Dr. Rashmi Patil Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Laparoscopic Surgery and infertility Specialist Banashankari, Bangalore addressed the audience on the topic of about uterine factor infertility, emphasizing how irregularities in the uterus can hinder the process of conception and pose a significant obstacle in maintaining a pregnancy to full term.