#Japan #Bayer #Sapporo #Elevit #Perinatal Nutrition

Bayer Pharmaceutical at the 78th Japanese Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology Conference

Bayer Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., based in Osaka, Japan, has recently co-hosted an afternoon seminar themed "Nutritional Intake in Perinatal Care: Up to Date" at the 78th annual meeting of the Japanese Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology held in Sapporo on May 16, 2026. This seminar aimed to underline the significance of nutrition in perinatal care backed by the latest evidence.

Seminar Overview

On May 16, 2026,
Title: Nutritional Intake in Perinatal Care: Up to Date

The seminar encompassed pivotal discussions led by notable experts in obstetrics and gynecology, focusing on two main lectures:

Lecture 1: "Can Folic Acid Prevent Placental Abruption?"

Chair: Dr. Ken Nagamatsu, International University of Health and Welfare
Speaker: Dr. Akihito Nakai, Vice President of the Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Dr. Nakai highlighted the serious risks associated with placental abruption, which can threaten the lives of both mother and child. Research indicates that mutations in the MTHFR gene, responsible for folate metabolism, may heighten the risk of this condition. Increased homocysteine levels, resulting from inefficient folate metabolism, could potentially damage placental endothelium.

Furthermore, complications related to placental health, including placental abruption, are interrelated and could pose recurrent risks across generations, thus necessitating more investigation into dietary supplementation, particularly folate, as a means to mitigate these risks.

The session also emphasized the role of vital micronutrients such as vitamins, iron, and calcium in reducing premature birth rates and improving birth weights, thereby underscoring the importance of sustained nutritional care from preconception through postpartum.

Lecture 2: "Delivering Essential Nutrients—Iron and Omega-3"

Chair: Dr. Akihito Nakai
Speaker: Dr. Ken Nagamatsu

Dr. Nagamatsu addressed the declining intake of iron among women in reproductive age in Japan. This trend is particularly concerning as it correlates with high rates of anemia and its associated health risks for both mothers and newborns. Under amended guidelines for obstetric care in 2026, ongoing evaluations of iron stores before and during pregnancy are now deemed critical.

Moreover, omega-3 fatty acids, especially DHA, are vital for fetal brain development; therefore, ensuring adequate dietary intake of these nutrients is crucial. The seminar advocated for informed nutritional management to maintain a balanced diet while supplementing as necessary.

Through these discussions, the necessity for continuous and appropriate intake of critical nutrients—like folic acid, iron, and omega-3—was recognized as a potential contributor to improved outcomes for mothers and children. The core message remained that a healthy diet should lay the foundation for nutritional intake, complemented as needed.

Elevit® Brand Showcase

A booth featuring Elevit® was set up at the conference to share important updates, including an increase in vitamin D content by nearly threefold compared to previous products since March 24, 2026. Attendees were educated about the importance of nutritional intake during the crucial "First 1000 Days of Life" for mothers and children, along with product information on Elevit®, Menevit, Elevit® Plant-based DHA, and Elevit® Postnatal Care, all based on robust evidence and safety assessments.

Conference Details

Date: May 15-17, 2026
Venue: Grand Mercure Sapporo Odori Park, Sapporo Prince Hotel, Pamir International Hall, Sapporo City Education and Culture Hall, Sapporo View Hotel Odori Park
URL: Japanese Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Information on Elevit®

Elevit® provides vital support from conception through the postpartum period, emphasizing the importance of the First 1000 Days in a child's life. Bayer offers a comprehensive range of supplements, including Elevit® (Prenatal Care), Menevit®, Elevit® Plant-based DHA, and Elevit® Postnatal Care, all aimed at ensuring mothers receive essential nutrients for both their health and that of their children.

About Bayer Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

Bayer is dedicated to transforming treatment for patients in Japan through sustainable practices, offering innovative pharmaceuticals primarily in specialties like cardiology, oncology, and women’s health. They also emphasize nutrition during the prenatal and postnatal periods, contributing to the health and development of children during their early life stages.