The Pacific Society for Reproductive Health (PSRH) was established in 1995 to address critical reproductive, maternal and neonatal health challenges unique to Pacific Island countries. Over nearly three decades, PSRH has grown from a bold idea into a thriving network of professionals dedicated to improving health outcomes across the Pacific.
Founding and Early Vision
The idea for the Pacific Society for Reproductive Health (PSRH) was conceived in 1991 during a discussion between Dr. Rajat Gyaneshwar, a Pacific RANZCOG fellow, and his Australian colleagues Drs. Brian Spurrett, Roger Gabb, and Jeremy Oats at an O&G workshop in Sydney. By 1993, with support from AusAid and the Fiji School of Medicine, the concept was formalised to foster collaboration between healthcare workers in the Pacific and their counterparts in Australia and New Zealand. PSRH was officially launched in 1995 at its inaugural meeting in Port Vila, Vanuatu, led by visionaries including Dr Brian Spurrett, Mrs Carmel Walker and Dr Rajat Gyaneshwar.
The Need for PSRH
PSRH was created to address:
🌸Isolation: Healthcare professionals often worked in silos, lacking collaboration opportunities.
🌸Capacity Building: Training and education were essential for addressing unique regional challenges.
🌸Advocacy: A unified voice was needed to secure resources and government support.
PSRH Conferences
The PSRH Biennial Conference is the cornerstone event for our members, offering an unparalleled platform for knowledge exchange, professional development, and networking among leaders in women’s and reproductive health across the Pacific. Over the past 30 years, these conferences have highlighted key advancements, fostered collaboration, and strengthened our collective impact. Below is a visual representation of all 15 conferences held to date, celebrating their enduring legacy. Explore more about past conferences and stay updated on upcoming events by visiting Conference .
A Foundation for the Future
Guided by principles of inclusivity, empowerment, and collaboration, PSRH continues to inspire and drive progress in reproductive health across the Pacific. PSRH is more than a professional organisation; it is a community built on generosity, sharing and a shared mission to improve the lives of women and families across the Pacific.
