In an exclusive interview with Dr Hrishikesh Pai, Founder & Medical Director of Bloom IVF Group, the globally respected leader in IVF and reproductive medicine reflects on four decades of pioneering change in India’s fertility landscape. From the early days when infertility was cloaked in stigma and limited access, to today’s AI-assisted embryo assessment and genomics-led personalization, Dr Pai has been at the forefront of every major milestone in assisted reproductive technology.
Having also served as President of Indian Society for Assisted Reproduction and Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India, and as Regional Trustee at International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics, he offers deep insights into how India’s fertility ecosystem has evolved into a globally recognized hub of clinical excellence, ethical standards, and innovation. In this candid conversation, Dr Pai discusses technological breakthroughs, regulatory reforms, patient-centric philosophy, and his vision for a future where AI, genomics, and compassion converge to redefine reproductive healthcare.
1. Over four decades, you have witnessed the evolution of reproductive medicine in India. What have been the most transformative milestones in this journey?
Over the past four decades, reproductive medicine in India has undergone a remarkable transformation. When I began my journey, infertility was often shrouded in stigma, and access to structured fertility care was limited. One of the earliest milestones was the successful birth of India’s first IVF baby in the late 1970s, which laid the foundation for assisted reproductive technology (ART) in the country. Subsequently, the standardization of IVF protocols, the introduction of ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection), blastocyst culture, vitrification, and preimplantation genetic testing significantly improved success rates and safety.
Equally transformative has been the democratization of fertility care. What was once available only in select metropolitan centers is now accessible across Tier II and Tier III cities. The establishment of professional bodies like the Indian Society for Assisted Reproduction (ISAR) and the strengthening of ethical frameworks under the ART Act have brought regulatory clarity and quality benchmarks. Today, India is not only self-reliant in advanced reproductive care but is also recognized globally for clinical expertise and innovation.
2. As the Founder and Medical Director of Bloom IVF Group, what guiding philosophy helped you build one of India’s most respected IVF networks?
At Bloom IVF Group, our guiding philosophy has always been patient-first, science-driven, and ethically grounded care. Fertility treatment is not just a medical procedure it is an emotional journey for couples and individuals. From the beginning, we believed in combining world-class technology with compassionate counseling.
Building a respected IVF network required three core principles: clinical excellence, transparency, and trust. We invested heavily in infrastructure, training embryologists and clinicians to global standards, and implementing strict laboratory protocols. At the same time, we ensured affordability and accessibility without compromising quality. Our aim was not merely to expand geographically, but to create centers of excellence that consistently deliver safe, evidence-based outcomes.
3. You were among the early adopters of advanced IVF technologies in India. What drives your decision to invest in cutting-edge innovations like AI-assisted embryo assessment and time-lapse imaging?
Being an early adopter of advanced IVF technologies stems from a deep commitment to improving patient outcomes. In reproductive medicine, small incremental gains can significantly increase the probability of success. Innovations such as AI-assisted embryo assessment and time-lapse imaging allow us to move beyond subjective evaluation toward more data-driven decision-making.
AI tools enhance embryo selection by analyzing morphokinetic patterns that may not be visible to the human eye, thereby improving implantation rates and reducing multiple embryo transfers. Similarly, time-lapse imaging minimizes embryo disturbance and provides continuous developmental insights. My decision to invest in such technologies is driven by one principle: if a scientifically validated innovation can improve safety, precision, and patient experience, we must embrace it responsibly.
4. How do you balance technological advancement with ethical responsibility and patient sensitivity in fertility care?
Balancing technological advancement with ethical responsibility is central to fertility care. While technology empowers us, it must always be guided by compassion and transparency. We ensure that every intervention is evidence-based and aligned with regulatory guidelines. Patients are counseled thoroughly about success probabilities, risks, and alternatives before proceeding.
Ethics in reproductive medicine also extends to issues such as embryo handling, genetic testing, donor programs, and surrogacy. Clear communication, informed consent, and respect for patient autonomy are non-negotiable. Ultimately, technology should reduce emotional and physical burden—not create unrealistic expectations. Maintaining this balance is what sustains long-term trust.
5. Having served as President of ISAR, FOGSI, and Regional Trustee at FIGO, how do you see India’s fertility ecosystem evolving in the global context?
Having served in leadership roles at the Indian Society for Assisted Reproduction (ISAR), Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India (FOGSI), and as Regional Trustee at the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO), I have witnessed India’s fertility ecosystem mature significantly.
India today stands at a pivotal moment. We have strong clinical expertise, cost-effective care models, and a growing research ecosystem. With regulatory strengthening under the ART and Surrogacy Acts, we are aligning with global standards of safety and ethics. On the global stage, India has the potential to become a hub for reproductive innovation, research collaboration, and training—provided we continue investing in quality control, transparency, and interdisciplinary research.
6. What is your long-term vision for Bloom IVF as reproductive medicine increasingly integrates AI, genomics, and personalized healthcare?
My long-term vision for Bloom IVF is to evolve into a comprehensive reproductive health ecosystem that integrates AI, genomics, and personalized medicine seamlessly. The future of reproductive medicine lies in predictive analytics, precision embryo selection, advanced genetic screening, and individualized ovarian stimulation protocols.
We envision leveraging genomics to tailor treatments based on a patient’s unique biological profile, while AI enhances decision-making accuracy. At the same time, we aim to strengthen fertility preservation services, especially for young cancer patients and women delaying motherhood.
However, our core will remain unchanged: compassionate, ethical, and patient-centered care. Technology will continue to evolve, but our commitment to helping families realize their dreams in a safe and responsible manner will always define Bloom IVF’s journey.
