Earlier this year, the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) moved its 36th annual ESHRE conference online in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. ESHRE joins many other medical and professional societies who have shifted their premier educational events to a digital format. While providers will not be able to network and learn in person, the event will host a wealth of learning sessions and interactive digital booths to explore from July 5-8, 2020.
All About the ESHRE Conference Virtual Format
ESHRE aims to match the online educational experience of its in-person conference as closely as possible with similar session types. The group is even translating its social functions to a virtual format, including journal club, fun run and coffee break sessions. The entire event is free for ESHRE members, and includes access to real-time online sessions and on-demand access after the event. Nonmembers can attend for €150.
The scientific program includes:
- 5 pre-congress courses
- 74 sessions
- 261 presentations on selected abstracts
- 53 invited lectures
- 810 posters
How does all of this look online? To avoid the technical difficulties that come with real-time video streaming, all presentations have been pre-recorded. Lectures and panel discussions will play during the scheduled times listed in the conference's program. On July 5, the pre-congress courses become available. During each presentation, attendees can submit questions through an online chat function. Then, at the end of the session or presentation, the speaker will answer questions live. E-posters will be available online throughout the conference and will stay accessible on demand afterward.
Key Topics at the ESHRE Conference
The conference program remains similar to that of the original in-person meeting. Topics this year include a deep dive into andrology, genetics and epigenetics, managing high-risk pregnancies and exploring future possibilities for assisted reproductive technology (ART). However, COVID-19, both generally and in relation to reproductive medicine, will be the focus of multiple sessions. The opening ceremony will feature a talk by Spanish virologist Dr. Bonaventura Clotet, who will provide an overview and update on the virus. Two invited lecturers will also talk about COVID-19, and two special sessions will discuss the virus and its ART implications.
The conference features two keynote presentations: one on data science and another on personal care topics and pubertal timing.
Abstracts presented during the conference will highlight the latest findings and technologies in in vitro fertilization and ART. Individual sessions will explore blastocyst transfer, male infertility and ovarian stimulation, among other topics. The conference also examines advances in endometriosis and fertility preservation.
Explore Vendors Through Virtual Exhibit Booths
GE virtual booth at ESHRE
Exhibit booths are moving online this year as well, and you will find GE Healthcare in attendance. GE Healthcare's interactive online exhibit space highlights ultrasound's role and clinical benefits in reproductive medicine. All participating vendors have their own virtual exhibit. The booths are available online throughout the event and on demand afterward through the end of 2020. ESHRE also has a free registration option for visitors who only want to view the exhibits and corporate sessions.
Although virtual events are a change for everyone involved, ESHRE aims to provide the same rigorous scientific program as in previous years. Plus, with opportunities to share and connect via social media, live question and answer time and interactive exhibits, attendees can still feel engaged and informed throughout the event.
