In the heart of Baku, Azerbaijan, on December 5th, 2023, the Conference on the Management of Medical Abortion unfolded as a pivotal gathering, attracting over 100 participants from diverse backgrounds—policymakers, healthcare providers, and members of the medical community. The event provided an invaluable platform for the exchange of knowledge and experiences in the realm of reproductive health.

Dr. Rodica Comendant, the esteemed Director and Coordinator of the Reproductive Health Training Center (RHTC), assumed a central role in the conference. For a compelling 90 minutes, she engaged the audience with a comprehensive overview of medical abortion. Dr. Comendant delved into the World Health Organization’s (WHO) latest recommendations, offering insights into new approaches such as self-managed medical abortion and telemedicine-based services. Drawing from Moldova and other regional countries’ experiences, she sought to convince the audience that these methods were not only safe but also efficient, making a case for remote services as a viable alternative to clinic-based procedures.

A noteworthy aspect of the conference was the involvement of the private pharmaceutical company Stada, which not only organized the event but also co-sponsored it. Interestingly, there was no overt insistence on promoting their products, Miroliut and Miropistone, the only options available for medical abortion in Azerbaijan. This collaborative approach, absent of overt commercial motives, opened avenues for continued partnerships to promote medical abortion and telemedicine.

Gulnara Rzaeva, in her presentation, brought forth the results of formative research funded by Grand Challenges Canada. Her findings played a pivotal role in shaping strategies for the management of medical abortion. Rzaeva’s revelations about the efficacy and accessibility of Telemedicine Medical Abortion (TMA) in Azerbaijan provided substantial evidence supporting the feasibility of online consultations. Her research not only showcased TMA as a suitable option but emphasized its ability to bridge geographical gaps, particularly crucial in crisis situations. Importantly, Rzaeva’s findings debunked concerns about compromising the safety of women, highlighting that telemedicine enhances and maintains safety standards.

Despite the evident progress in understanding and acceptance, Dr. Comendant acknowledged the uphill battle for stakeholder support in Azerbaijan for remote services. The conference, however, marked a positive shift in attitudes compared to earlier presentations on Telemedicine Medical Abortion. The audience’s active participation, characterized by numerous questions and expressions of interest, indicated a growing commitment to the cause.

In conclusion, the Conference on the Management of Medical Abortion not only disseminated knowledge but served as a catalyst for collaboration, networking, and partnerships. It illuminated the transformative potential of Telemedicine Medical Abortion, showcasing its value not only as a convenient option for women but as a tool to improve access to essential healthcare services, especially in challenging circumstances. The event echoed a collective commitment within the healthcare community to prioritize the well-being of women and adhere to globally recognized guidelines, promising a positive trajectory for the future of medical abortion practices in Azerbaijan and beyond.