The Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India (FOGSI), in collaboration with global pharmaceutical giant Bayer, hosted the 75th Continuing Medical Education (CME) meeting under the “Preserve the Uterus” initiative. The event took place at Hotel ITC Maratha, Andheri (E), and was attended by senior members from FOGSI, Bayer, and the Mumbai Obstetrics & Gynecological Society (MOGS).

Launched in 2022 by FOGSI, Bayer, and the Integrated Health & Wellbeing (IHW) Council, the "Preserve the Uterus" initiative aims to raise public awareness and address women's health concerns at the government level. The program focuses on preventing untimely and unnecessary hysterectomies in India by educating healthcare professionals on modern gynecological management practices. To date, the initiative has engaged over 5,500 healthcare professionals across 75 gynecology societies.

Dr. Jaydeep Tank, President of FOGSI, emphasized the organization’s commitment to reducing unnecessary hysterectomies and promoting superior healthcare practices. "We are dedicated to reducing unnecessary hysterectomies whilst striving to optimize access for women who need them and other health care services. Collaborating with Bayer and MOGS, we aim to take this initiative to preserve the uterus and enhance women's health. Increased awareness will help eliminate related taboos and support doctors in managing various gynecological disorders," he said.

Ms. Shweta Rai, Managing Director - India and Country Division Head - South Asia, Bayer Pharmaceuticals, highlighted Bayer's role in the initiative. “Over the last two years, Bayer has steered this initiative with a grassroots level engagement, and we are proud to champion women’s health and overall well-being. As a key stakeholder, Bayer is deeply concerned about the number of untimely and sometimes unjustified hysterectomy cases. We have successfully garnered tremendous support in collaboration with FOGSI and IHW to educate healthcare practitioners nationwide on modern gynecological management. With a healthy engagement of 75 gynec societies and over 5500 healthcare professionals, we further aim to engage government bodies and raise awareness among women, empowering them to make informed health choices,” she said.

Dr. Priyankur Roy, Chairperson of the Public Awareness Committee at FOGSI, discussed the importance of informed medical practice. "At FOGSI, advancing women's health through informed medical practice is central to our mission. This 75th meeting aims to equip healthcare professionals with the latest insights and techniques in managing patients with benign gynecological disorders, emphasizing our commitment to comprehensive care and better patient outcomes," he said.

The "Preserve the Uterus" campaign was initially launched by the IHW Council and Bayer on April 21, 2022, at the Constitution Club in Delhi. The initiative expanded to Maharashtra, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala from July 2022 to February 2023. The first national summit was held on November 23, 2022, in Delhi, followed by the second edition on November 30, 2023, at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.

According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-4) 2015–16, 3.3% of Indian women aged 15–49 had undergone a hysterectomy, with the highest rates in Andhra Pradesh (8.7%) and Telangana (8.2%). The North-eastern region had the lowest prevalence at 1.2%. Nationally, most hysterectomies were performed in private facilities (69.6%), whereas in the North-east, the majority were conducted in public health facilities (73%).

The "Preserve the Uterus" initiative continues to work towards its goal of reducing unnecessary hysterectomies and promoting better women's health practices across India.