A femtech company based at Milton Park is developing a sensor-equipped smart IUD designed to collect real-time data from inside the uterus, in a move that could significantly improve understanding of women’s reproductive health and fertility.
Verso Biosense has created a wireless monitoring device capable of measuring key physiological indicators inside the uterus, including temperature and oxygen levels. The technology is intended to generate continuous data that researchers believe could help unlock important information about one of medicine’s least understood organs.
Chief executive Kate Rowley said the innovation addresses a longstanding gap in women’s health research.
“Despite the enormous impact on half the global population, the uterus remains a ‘black box’ in many areas of medicine. Continuous monitoring could provide insights we’ve never had before.”
The technology is initially being explored for fertility treatment, particularly for women who have experienced unsuccessful IVF cycles. Researchers hope that monitoring uterine conditions over time will help identify patterns associated with successful embryo implantation and improve treatment outcomes.
The development comes at a time when global investment in femtech is accelerating, with the sector expected to experience strong growth over the next decade as more companies focus on women’s health innovation.
Rowley said the long-term aim is to build data sets that could support wider medical research into conditions such as Endometriosis, Polycystic ovary syndrome and menopause-related health challenges.
Verso Biosense operates within a community of 280 life science and technology businesses at Milton Park, recognised as the UK’s largest single ownership innovation community.
The company recently presented its work during the Park Perspectives event titled “Shining a light on women’s health”, where invited guests heard about the progress being made on the device and its potential applications.
Philip Campbell, commercial director of Milton Park at Federated Hermes Real Estate, said the event demonstrated the value of collaboration across science and business.
“Milton Park is home to a vibrant community of life science innovators working at the forefront of research and technology.
“Companies such as Verso Biosense demonstrate how bold thinking and scientific collaboration can lead to breakthroughs that have the potential to improve lives around the world. By giving them a platform through our Park Perspective events, it helps bring people together to share ideas and accelerate innovation.”
As women’s health gains increasing global attention, innovations such as the smart IUD may help close longstanding knowledge gaps and support more personalised care in future healthcare settings.
