The American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) is a multidisciplinary organization dedicated to the advancement of the science and practice of reproductive medicine. It provides a forum for lay public, researchers, physicians and affiliated health workers through education, publications, and meetings. The Society has its headquarters in Birmingham, AL and a public affairs office in Washington, DC.
Contents
History and activities
Founded in 1944 by a small group of fertility experts who met in Chicago, its initial name was the American Society for the Study of Sterility and then the American Fertility Society (AFS). Though primarily an American organization, it now has members from over 100 countries worldwide. Key activities are the Annual Meeting that brings together several thousand of interested professionals from different countries, as well as courses, seminars, workshops and publications. Special interest groups are focused on assisted reproductive technology, andrology, reproductive surgery, contraception, menopause, genetic counseling, business practices, reproductive endocrinology, sexuality, adolescent endocrinology, reproductive nursing, reproductive biology, mental health, imaging techniques, laboratory techniques, fertility preservation, and reproductive immunology. ASRM has an Ethics Committee that provides guidance on ethical issues. The ASRM Practice Committee issues clinical guidelines and reports. Its statements and actions are closely followed by the media. The European counterpart of ASRM is ESHRE.
World Health Organization NGO Status
In May 2014, the ASRM joined into official relations with the World Health Organization (WHO) as a Nongovernmental Organization (NGO).
“Illness is not limited by political boundaries. It is vital that we work with our colleagues from all over the world to improve the care of reproductive disorders. We are anxious to work with governments and other NGO's as we all strive to improve global reproductive health. Patients the world over deserve access to the best care possible. In an increasingly interconnected world, it is clear that this cannot happen by nations acting alone,” stated Rebecca Z. Sokol, MD, MPH, then Acting President of the ASRM.
Publications
Publications of the ASRM include -