It is with great excitement and pride that I welcome you to the 2026 ISSWSH Annual Meeting. As Scientific Program Chair, I have had the privilege of working closely with my colleague, Dr. Jeff Kiesner from Italy, and an outstanding Scientific Program Committee to create a program that is innovative, inclusive, and truly representative of the multidisciplinary excellence that defines our society. Our goal for this meeting has been to develop a program that celebrates the extraordinary progress in sexual medicine while challenging us to think boldly about what comes next and still acknowledging our current challenges. We have designed sessions that unite disciplines, blend cutting-edge science with practical clinical insight, and provide meaningful opportunities for collaboration.
My journey with ISSWSH began almost a decade ago, sitting in the audience at one of these very meetings. Over the years, I returned again and again, fueled by the science, the camaraderie, and the mission of this organization. I deepened my work in sexual medicine through research, caring for patients, and educating students and clinicians, and I had the privilege of serving on multiple committees, and now I am both humbled and honored to serve as the Scientific Chair.
This is what makes ISSWSH a unique organization with a unique community—gynecologists, urologists, primary care, NP/PAs, sex therapists, psychologists, physical therapists, researchers, educators, patient advocates, and trainees—working together to advance sexual health and well-being for women around the globe. The ideas and relationships sparked here have the power to shape the future of our field.
This year’s program highlights innovative research, thought-provoking discussions, and recognition of excellence in our field, while making space for the conversations and connections that are the heart of ISSWSH. Whether you are here for the first time or are a longtime member, I hope you decide to attend to gain new knowledge, new colleagues, and new energy to bring back to your work.
New for 2025, we are excited to introduce video abstract submissions, giving authors a dynamic way to present their work. The top five abstracts in each category will be highlighted, and our Best Abstract Awards—the Irwin Goldstein and Michael Pearlman Awards—will be presented during a dedicated plenary moment celebrating excellence in sexual medicine research.
On behalf of the Scientific Committee, I would like to invite you to spend Valentine's Day with us! Join us February 12-15 at the beautiful Southern California location in Long Beach. We look forward to learning, sharing, and shaping the future of sexual medicine with every one of you.
Sincerely,
Sameena Rahman, MD, FACOG, MSCP, IF
Scientific Committee Chair