A new device to help female cancer survivors with pelvic pain and painful intercourse
Official title: Intravaginal device for the treatment of pelvic pain and dyspareunia in female cancer survivors
Funded at Cervu, INC · NIH-10759026 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new device to help female cancer survivors who have ongoing pelvic pain and discomfort during intimacy, making it easier and more comfortable for them to manage their symptoms.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 1 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cervu, INC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cary, United States) |
| Project start | September 25, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $391,500 |
| NIH project number | 1R43HD113449-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10759026 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are female cancer survivors experiencing chronic pelvic pain and dyspareunia due to their cancer treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of cancer or those who do not experience pelvic pain or dyspareunia may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing an innovative intravaginal device specifically designed for female cancer survivors who experience chronic pelvic pain and dyspareunia as a result of their cancer treatments. The device aims to provide a multimodal approach that includes dilation, vibration, myofascial release, and trigger point massage therapies, tailored to the unique needs of these patients. Through user testing and feedback, the researchers are refining the device's design to ensure it meets the ergonomic and functional requirements of its users. The goal is to confirm the device's feasibility and prepare it for initial human trials.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the quality of life for female cancer survivors by alleviating pelvic pain and enhancing sexual health.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of developing a tailored intravaginal device is innovative, similar devices have shown promise in addressing pelvic pain in other populations, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Cervu, INC
Cary, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tivy, Caitlyn — Cervu, INC
- Study coordinator: Tivy, Caitlyn
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.