#United States #New York #Reproductive Health #Pregnantish #World Fertility Awards

The Historic World Fertility Awards

On December 1, 2025, the inaugural World Fertility Awards (WFA), spearheaded by Pregnantish, were held at the Times Center in New York City. This groundbreaking event was designed not just for industry insiders but to engage a broader audience, including advocates, innovators, and those affected by fertility challenges. Unlike traditional conferences, the WFA aimed to spotlight significant developments and insights in reproductive health through storytelling and shared experiences.

Declining Fertility Rates

As we enter 2026, global fertility rates are set to decline further. According to research by Euromonitor, the projected birth rate for 2025 is estimated at 2.8 children per woman, a drop from 3.1 a decade ago. This startling statistic prompted the WFA to gather voices and leaders from seven global regions to emphasize the critical importance of Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and to celebrate the significant strides made in this arena.

A Celebration of Advancements in Fertility Care

The event's theme, "When Science Meets Family, the Possibilities Are Endless," encapsulated the essence of a collaborative community dedicated to advancing fertility care. The awards sought to fill a critical gap in the fertility industry—a public-facing, media-centric platform focused on real-world impacts and the humanity behind scientific advancements.

The evening divided into three acts, reflecting Pregnantish's core themes of Access, Innovation, and Equity. Numerous awards were distributed, showcasing the achievements of various honorees and fostering dialogue surrounding the evolution of reproductive health.

Honoring Change Makers

Andrea Syrtash, Founder of Pregnantish and the WFA, articulated the groundbreaking nature of the evening, stating, "For years, fertility innovation has been happening quietly, but changing lives every day. At Pregnantish, we know that when diverse perspectives come together, the landscape shifts."

Dr. Thomas Molinaro, Chief Medical Officer of IVI RMA North America and an early supporter of the WFA, lauded the importance of global collaboration in advancing fertility care. He stated, "The World Fertility Awards unite visionaries who transform dreams into families. At IVI RMA, we honor this global movement—advancing science, equity, and hope so every patient can access the care they deserve."

Focus on Underrepresented Topics

A defining feature of the WFA was its dedication to highlighting underrepresented voices in the fertility narrative, including male fertility, which is often overlooked. Brian Mazza, a fitness and lifestyle influencer, was recognized with the "Champion for Male Fertility Advocacy Award." His participation emphasizes the pressing need for awareness around male fertility challenges.

Molly Eaton, VP of Sales for Fellow, a supporter of the event, highlighted their mission to provide diagnostic mail-in semen analysis, enabling men to explore their fertility concerns easily and privately from home.

Legacy and Future Insights

The event also showcased a compelling Legacy segment, honoring trailblazers like Professor Antonio Pellicer, founder of IVI RMA Global, and Jacques Cohen, a Nobel Prize-winning embryologist whose innovations transformed IVF practices. These moments reinforce the historical context of reproductive healthcare and the continued importance of advocacy.

Guest speakers, including astronaut Kellie Gerardi and influencer Loren Rosko, delivered poignant acceptance speeches, sharing personal journeys of resilience following their struggles with fertility.

Engaging the Public through Athletic Advocacy

One distinct segment included a satirical nod to ESPN's SportsCenter, hosted by Jenna Wolfe, which featured notable athletes discussing fertility, thus bridging sports and healthcare. Athletes like Olympic medalists Carli Lloyd and Tara Lipinski participated, highlighting the role of public figures in advocating for reproductive health awareness.

Conclusion: A New Era in Fertility Conversations

The World Fertility Awards signify a pivotal shift in the narrative around fertility. By intertwining science with storytelling and social impact, the WFA is at the forefront of changing how fertility conversations unfold globally. The upcoming landmark event on December 9 promises to further elevate the discourse surrounding reproductive health and accessibility.

For those looking to engage more deeply with the conversation, sponsorships and involvement opportunities are available through the WFA’s official website.

About the World Fertility Awards

The World Fertility Awards were founded by Pregnantish to honor the global leaders and innovators driving changes in fertility care, with a focus on access, innovation, and equity in reproductive health.