The Reproductive Microbiome
Item | Details | Available | Duration |
---|---|---|---|
The Reproductive Microbiome | immediately after purchase | for 2 years |
From the initial conception and the role the seminal microbiome has to the microbial status in utero, research is now helping us to understand the intricacies and interconnectedness of everyone involved. As we evolve our understanding, we can learn strategies to optimise microbial balance and thus improve the health of the next generation.
Course Outline:
- Participants will understand the importance and balance of the various microbiomes within the male and female body
- Participants will understand strategies to optimise microbiome health to ensure the health and wellbeing of the fetus (infant)
- Participants will understand the impact of bacteria and other microbes and the importance of supporting healthy commensals and treating opportunistic infections
- Participants will understand the health implications of vaginal vs caesarean deliveries
- Participants will learn useful clinical treatment strategies to improve the health of both parents, improve pregnancy and labour outcomes, and the health of the child
Detailed Content:
The microbiome in reproduction
Infections
Seminal microbiome
Maternal microbiomes
- Vaginal microbiome
- Cervical microbiome
- Uterine microbiome
- Pre-term birth prevention and inventions
- Pregnancy microbiome
- Oral microbiome
- Placental microbiome
Fetal and neonatal microbiome
- Amniotic fluid microbiome
- Respiratory microbiome
- Developmental impact – ASD, obesity and others
- Gastrointestinal microbiome
Labour
- Vaginal vs cesarean
- Vernix caseosa
Treatment options
- Modifying microbiome strategies and treatment options
- Maternal prenatal stress
Summary, Q&A
The Reproductive Microbiome
Leah Hechtman

Leah is an experienced and respected clinician and has been in private practice for over 20 years. She specialises in fertility, pregnancy and reproductive medicine and holds fellowships and memberships with many International organisations.
She has completed extensive advanced training and is currently completing her PhD through the School of Women’s and Children’s Health (Faculty of Medicine [UNSW]). Her research is exploring ovarian biomarkers in women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) and Premature Ovarian Failure (POF).