The Recurrent Pregnancy Loss (RPL) Research Advisory Board guides and shapes the research efforts of the Early Pregnancy Research Lab and the RPL Research Program at BC Women’s Hospital & Health Centre. The Research Advisory Board brings together a diverse group of individuals with relation to RPL to ensure research is relevant, inclusive, and centred on patient experience.
Mission and Vision
The RPL Research Advisory Board is dedicated to advancing research, care, and support for those affected by RPL, a distressing medical condition that places significant strain on individuals and couples trying to conceive. Recognizing that the experience of RPL extends beyond the physical loss of pregnancies and deeply impacts emotional and psychological well-being, we are committed to ensuring that research priorities reflect the real needs of those most affected.
Our mission is to address the many knowledge gaps in the causes and management of RPL by placing the voices of patients and families at the centre of our work. We bring together a diverse community of patients, clinicians, researchers, and partners to collaborate on research priorities, guide decision-making, and build a foundation for meaningful improvements in patient outcomes and quality of care.
Who We Are
The RPL Research Advisory Board represents a collaboration between researchers, clinicians, patient partners, health system decision-makers, community members, and community organizations. This group works together synergistically, each bringing a wide range of backgrounds, professional expertise, and lived experience to the group.
The RPL Research Advisory Board meets approximately every two months, both virtually and in person, to set research priorities, identify important topics for study, and support the development of new grant applications. Members are actively engaged in sharing research findings with the community and raising awareness of RPL research.
What We Do
The RPL Research Advisory Board is committed to advancing the quality and relevance of research through collaborative, patient-oriented partnerships to ensure that research efforts address the priorities and needs of all stakeholders. Our work emphasizes trauma-informed, reciprocal engagement and supports evidence-based improvements in RPL care.
Board activities include:
- Co-develop research priorities that incorporate the perspectives of patients, clinicians, and researchers.
- Advise on the design and implementation of studies, data collection methods, and research ethics.
- Develop and implement effective knowledge translation strategies, including communication of research findings through social media, newsletters, and community presentations.
- Raise awareness of RPL and associated risk factors in the broader community.
- Establish mechanisms for ongoing feedback from research users, such as surveys and open Q&A forums.
- Facilitate collaboration and partnerships across clinical, academic, and community sectors.
- Support the preparation and submission of grant applications based on research priorities identified by the Board.