Protecting life in a time of war

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Medicine
• Global Health
• Conflict Studies

Background:

• Warfare persists globally, causing immense casualties and societal disruption.
• The pervasive use of "war" in vernacular highlights its deep societal impact.
• Reproductive physicians and scientists are committed to life preservation and family building, principles antithetical to violence.

Observation:

• The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has severely impacted reproductive health services.
• Reports indicate civilian hospitals, including maternity centers, are being targeted.
• Essential supplies like liquid nitrogen are scarce, endangering fertility treatments and stored genetic material.

Findings:

• Reproductive health services have collapsed in war-torn Ukraine.
• Vulnerable populations, including pregnant mothers and gestational carriers, face extreme risks.
• Targeting of medical facilities and scarcity of critical resources threaten reproductive care continuity.

Implications:

• The war poses an immediate threat to the reproductive health and rights of Ukrainian citizens.
• Disruptions in care jeopardize the future of family building for many.
• International attention and support are crucial to mitigate the humanitarian crisis in reproductive healthcare.