Investigating the best treatment options for women with groin hernias

Sex as a Biologic Variable in Groin Hernia

NIH-funded research University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11011438

This study is looking at how being a woman affects the treatment options for groin hernias, and it aims to find out if women would be open to participating in a trial comparing surgery to just monitoring their condition, so we can improve care for women with this issue.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ann Arbor, United States)
Project IDNIH-11011438 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how biological sex influences treatment options for groin hernias, particularly in women who often receive less favorable care compared to men. It aims to evaluate the acceptability and feasibility of a clinical trial comparing surgery and watchful waiting for female patients. By addressing barriers to clinical trial participation and ensuring that outcomes are relevant to patients, the research seeks to improve treatment strategies for women with groin hernias. Ultimately, this work will pave the way for a patient-centered clinical trial that could change current treatment guidelines.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women diagnosed with groin hernias who are considering treatment options.

Not a fit: Patients who are male or those who do not have a groin hernia may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more personalized and effective treatment options for women with groin hernias, potentially reducing unnecessary surgeries.

How similar studies have performed: While there has been limited research specifically addressing watchful waiting in women with groin hernias, similar approaches in other conditions have shown promise in improving patient outcomes.

Where this research is happening

Ann Arbor, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.