professional-organization

American Society for Reproductive Medicine: Overview, Mission, and Key Resources

The American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) is a leading professional organization dedicated to advancing reproductive health science and practice. Founded in 1944 and...

Mara Ellison
American Society for Reproductive Medicine: Overview, Mission, and Key Resources

Introduction and mission

The American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) is a leading professional organization dedicated to advancing reproductive health science and practice. Founded in 1944 and headquartered in Birmingham, Alabama, ASRM serves clinicians, scientists, and patients worldwide. Its core mission is to promote reproductive medicine through education, research, advocacy, and the dissemination of evidence-based guidelines. ASRM is recognized globally for its authoritative clinical practice guidelines and leadership in reproductive biology, infertility, and fertility preservation.

What is ASRM

ASRM is a multidisciplinary, non-profit professional society composed of physicians, scientists, nurses, and allied health professionals specializing in reproductive medicine. The society provides a forum for knowledge exchange, sets standards for clinical care, and supports training and research. Its membership includes thousands of experts across more than 100 countries, reflecting the global scope of reproductive medicine and the need for coordinated, high-quality care.

Key programs and initiatives

Guidelines and quality practice

ASRM develops evidence-based clinical guidelines that translate research into practical recommendations. These address infertility evaluation, assisted reproductive technologies (ART), embryo and oocyte cryopreservation, genetic testing, and management of recurrent pregnancy loss. The guidelines are regularly reviewed to incorporate new data and evolving standards of care.

Education and meetings

ASRM hosts an annual Scientific Congress that attracts thousands of attendees for plenary sessions, workshops, and poster presentations. The society also offers webinars, online modules, and curated reading lists to support continuous learning. These educational offerings serve both reproductive medicine specialists and primary care clinicians who manage fertility-related concerns.

Research support and advocacy

Through grants, awards, and collaborative research networks, ASRM advances innovation in reproductive biology and clinical practice. The society engages in advocacy on issues such as insurance coverage for infertility care, access to fertility preservation, and ethical oversight in ART. This work aims to expand equitable access to safe and effective reproductive care.

ASRM guidelines at a glance

ASRM guidelines are widely referenced by clinicians, payers, and policymakers. They cover a broad range of topics, including the evaluation and treatment of infertility, use of ART, cryopreservation, and emerging technologies. The recommendations are grounded in available evidence and expert consensus, and they emphasize patient-centered decision-making.

Examples of topics addressed in ASRM guidelines

TopicVerified detailSource type
Evaluation of infertilityStandardized assessment of couples after 6–12 months of unprotected intercourse without conceptionASRM guideline
Ovarian reserve testingUse of anti-Müllerian hormone and antral follicle count to inform prognosis and treatment planningASRM guideline
Embryo cryopreservationDetails on vitrification and long-term storage, with evidence on outcomes and safetyASRM guideline
Genetic testing in ARTPreimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy and monogenic conditions, with context-specific recommendationsASRM guideline
Recurrent pregnancy lossComprehensive evaluation and management steps focused on treatable causesASRM guideline

Membership, outreach, and resources

ASRM offers a variety of resources for clinicians and patients. For clinicians, these include practice algorithms, case-based learning opportunities, and networking through specialty interest groups. For patients, ASRM provides factual summaries, a directory of reproductive medicine specialists, and guidance on what to expect during fertility evaluation and treatment. The society also supports diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives to broaden participation in reproductive medicine.

How ASRM adds long-term value

ASRM contributes to reproductive medicine by synthesizing research, standardizing practice, and facilitating education. Its guidelines are frequently cited in clinical decision support tools and institutional protocols, helping translate evidence into consistent care. By fostering collaboration among professionals and maintaining a focus on ethics and patient welfare, ASRM helps ensure that advances in reproductive science translate into safe, effective, and accessible care over the long term.