A cutting-edge real-time hormone tracking device is in development at the University of Southampton’s Future Worlds accelerator program, aiming to revolutionize the way women monitor their hormones. POMHealth, founded by Stefan-Tudor Ilie and Mariajosé Argote, is working on a prototype for a continuous hormone monitor focusing initially on fertility.
The significance of tracking sex hormones for fertility, menopause care, and conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome cannot be understated. Currently, women rely on periodic blood tests that provide only a snapshot of their hormone levels. However, POMHealth’s innovative device will offer 24/7 access to real-time hormone data, providing a game-changing solution for women’s health.
The importance of precise hormone monitoring in fertility treatments like in vitro fertilization is emphasized by gynecologist Ed Coats, who anticipates the device could be invaluable for patients seeking private care. By eliminating the need for frequent clinic visits and offering access to accurate and affordable home monitoring, POMHealth’s device has the potential to enhance patient outcomes and accessibility to top-tier fertility clinics.
Drawing inspiration from successful continuous monitoring technologies like glucose monitors for Type 1 diabetes, the founders envision a future where women can track their hormone levels with ease, empowering them to make informed decisions about their health. With plans to expand beyond fertility into peri-menopause and menopause monitoring, POMHealth’s device could revolutionize hormone management for women worldwide.
Employing a combination of existing health signal monitoring technologies and cutting-edge silicon photonic circuits, POMHealth aims to create a user-friendly, accurate, and reliable hormone monitoring device. The team’s technical expertise and dedication to improving women’s health have garnered attention in the investment community, with a prototype expected within the next year.
The collaborative efforts of POMHealth with fertility experts and the support of initiatives like the Future Worlds accelerator program highlight the potential of this innovative technology to transform women’s healthcare. With aspirations to monitor a range of hormones critical for women’s health, POMHealth’s real-time hormone tracker is poised to be a powerful tool for doctors and patients alike.