Women’s health has, for too long, been relegated to the margins of medical innovation. Decades of inertia have left many essential technologies virtually unchanged, perpetuating systemic neglect of a vital sector. This stagnation is finally being challenged by groundbreaking advancements such as those led by OCON Therapeutics, an Israeli-founded company at the forefront of women’s health technology.
At the centre of OCON’s trailblazing work is its patented intrauterine drug delivery platform—a spherical, three-dimensional device poised to transform how uterine conditions are treated. This novel technology not only addresses unmet medical needs but also heralds a new chapter in how we approach women’s healthcare globally.
Daniela Schardinger, VP of Marketing & Medical Affairs at OCON Therapeutics, aptly notes, “The technologies available in women’s health today are 60 years old.” From T-shaped IUDs to traditional diagnostic tools like ultrasounds, the sector has relied on antiquated methods that fail to meet modern healthcare standards.
OCON’s intrauterine platform represents a paradigm shift. At its core is a dynamic, spherical stent made up of interconnected titanium balls. Once inserted, the device adapts seamlessly to the unique contours of the uterus. Its design enables it to carry and deliver a range of therapeutics—including hormones, drugs, and other treatments—directly to the target area.
Keren Leshem, CEO of OCON Therapeutics, in several interviews has emphasised the adaptability of the device: “Our device not only transforms into a ball once inside the uterus, but the therapeutics on it adapt themselves to the specific condition being treated.” This ability to address a wide spectrum of uterine conditions—from contraception to complex diseases—makes OCON’s technology a versatile and game-changing solution.
The flagship product of OCON’s platform, the IUB Ballerine, is a non-hormonal copper contraceptive that has already garnered attention for its innovative approach. Unlike traditional IUDs, the Ballerine conforms to the uterus’s natural shape, enhancing comfort and safety while maintaining contraceptive efficacy.
However, the platform’s potential extends far beyond contraception. The spherical stent can deliver targeted therapies for a range of uterine health issues, such as endometriosis, fibroids, and even certain cancers. It is flexible in its application, capable of remaining in place for durations ranging from 30 minutes to five years, depending on the therapeutic goal.
This adaptability allows for personalised treatment plans that cater to individual needs, minimising side effects and optimising outcomes. Such precision medicine represents the future of healthcare, moving away from one-size-fits-all solutions to more nuanced, patient-centred care.
Israel’s reputation as a global hub for innovation is well-earned. With its dynamic ecosystem of start-ups, cutting-edge research institutions, and a culture of entrepreneurial resilience, the country consistently punches above its weight in the global medical technology arena.
OCON Therapeutics exemplifies this spirit. The company’s intrauterine platform not only addresses long-ignored gaps in women’s health but also showcases Israel’s ability to leverage advanced engineering and medical expertise to create transformative solutions. By tackling systemic challenges with ingenuity, OCON is setting a benchmark for medical advancements that prioritise both practicality and impact.
The science behind OCON’s device is rooted in the principles of stent technology, widely used in cardiovascular medicine. This crossover into women’s health illustrates the potential of applying existing technologies to neglected sectors. The use of titanium, a biocompatible material, ensures durability and minimises the risk of adverse reactions, making it a highly reliable solution for long-term use.
OCON’s stent also opens new avenues for drug delivery systems. By concentrating treatments directly at the source, the platform minimises systemic exposure, reducing side effects and improving efficacy. This precision aligns with the broader trend of targeted therapies in modern medicine, further underscoring the device’s revolutionary nature.
OCON Therapeutics’ innovation sheds light on the broader issue of equity in medical research and development. Women’s health, historically underfunded and under-prioritised, has suffered from a lack of investment in research and technology. OCON’s work challenges this paradigm, demonstrating the profound impact that focused innovation can have on improving quality of life.
By addressing conditions often sidelined in the broader healthcare narrative, OCON is not only improving individual outcomes but also influencing how women’s health is perceived and prioritised globally. Its technology has the potential to reduce healthcare disparities and set a precedent for other companies to follow suit.
The advancements pioneered by OCON Therapeutics represent more than just technological innovation—they symbolise a commitment to redefining how women’s health is valued and addressed. As the intrauterine platform gains traction in clinics and hospitals worldwide, it is clear that the future of women’s health is no longer constrained by outdated technologies and systemic neglect.
By fostering a culture of innovation and prioritising underserved sectors, Israel continues to serve as a model for how nations can lead in tackling global healthcare challenges. OCON’s success is a testament to what is possible when ingenuity, investment, and purpose converge. Let this be a rallying call for greater focus on women’s health—a vital area that impacts not just individuals, but the well-being of societies as a whole.
At We Believe in Israel, we champion stories of innovation and progress that demonstrate the positive global impact of Israeli ingenuity. OCON Therapeutics’ pioneering work is a testament to the power of determination and creativity in solving critical challenges. Let us continue to celebrate and support advancements that shape a better future for all.
