European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE)

The European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) is a nonprofit professional society headquartered in Strombeek-Bever, Belgium. It was founded in 1985 by Robert Edwards (University of Cambridge) and Jean Cohen (Paris) with the aim of promoting research and understanding in reproductive biology and medicine.

ESHRE has grown from 349 founding members to more than 9,000 members across 135 countries, describing itself as the world's leading society in reproductive science and medicine. The organization operates 14 Special Interest Groups covering sub-specialties such as andrology, reproductive genetics, ethics and law, and paramedics, and offers certifications for clinical embryologists alongside educational resources.

The society publishes peer-reviewed journals including Human Reproduction and Human Reproduction Open (in partnership with Oxford Academic), and produces evidence-based clinical practice guidelines. Its annual meeting is a major global event; the 40th anniversary meeting in Amsterdam (July 2024) featured more than 1,120 posters and oral presentations, with the 42nd Annual Meeting scheduled in London in July 2026.

ESHRE also actively engages in policy advocacy, informing European politicians and policymakers on reproductive health issues and supporting mental health initiatives related to involuntary childlessness. Innovations in reproductive medicine, embryology, or fertility technology are directly relevant to its core scientific and clinical mission.