Experts in reproductive health across the Asia Pacific region are spearheading an innovative initiative aimed at improving the lives of millions of women globally who suffer from endometriosis. This debilitating condition affects up to 10 percent of females, causing chronic pain and potential fertility issues, often robbing many girls of their healthy teenage years due to delayed diagnosis.

Endometriosis not only significantly impacts the lives of those affected but also places a burden on their families and workplaces. While there is currently no cure for endometriosis, various treatment options are available to help manage its chronic effects.

The Asia Pacific Initiative on Reproduction (ASPIRE), a taskforce comprising scientists, clinicians, nurses, and counselors specializing in fertility health, is leading the effort to establish centers and networks of expertise dedicated to treating endometriosis and its associated chronic condition, adenomyosis. In addition, ASPIRE is bringing together leaders in reproductive health to develop strategies for fertility preservation for patients with these conditions.

These twin objectives were championed at the ASPIRE 2024 Congress in Manila, which brought together 1,200 specialists to discuss the latest advancements in treating infertility, affecting one in every six couples worldwide.

Professor Neil Johnson, a Board Member of ASPIRE and Past President of the World Endometriosis Society, emphasized the importance of sharing knowledge and developing a consensus on treating endometriosis and adenomyosis among reproductive health specialists in APAC countries.

"We recognize the diversity of countries, economies, cultures, and societies in the region, and aim to standardize best practice approaches in treating patients with these conditions while addressing potential threats to their fertility," he said.

"This requires a multi-disciplinary approach with shared decision-making to ensure quality care for patients with endometriosis and adenomyosis in the Asia Pacific region and beyond. Currently, there is no consensus worldwide on fertility preservation for girls and women with these conditions. ASPIRE is leveraging its connections with major international bodies, including the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology and the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, to empower the region and help shape the future of reproductive health care globally.

"In doing so, we are advocating for dialogue with governments and policymakers to secure appropriate funding and services for those whose health and fertility are threatened by endometriosis and adenomyosis."

The ASPIRE Congress in Manila also advanced a reform blueprint called Fertility Counts, promoting family-friendly policies in response to alarming declines in fertility rates worldwide, particularly in many Asia Pacific countries.