New hydrogel film to ease pain during sex for women with vulvodynia

Novel Hydrogel Film to Reduce Pain Experienced during Sexual Intercourse for Women with Vulvodynia

NIH-funded research Pelva Health Corporation · NIH-11182416

This study is testing a special gel film that could help women with vulvodynia and vestibulodynia feel less pain during sex, offering a safe and effective alternative to medications.

Quick facts

Grant typeSbir 1 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionPelva Health Corporation NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Saint Paul, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11182416 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to create a non-drug hydrogel film designed to alleviate pain during sexual intercourse for women suffering from vulvodynia and vestibulodynia. The project focuses on developing a delivery system that minimizes pressure on sensitive areas, which can trigger pain. Unlike existing pharmaceutical treatments that may have side effects and lack FDA approval for this condition, this innovative approach seeks to provide immediate relief without the risks associated with medications. The hydrogel film will be clinically tested to evaluate its effectiveness in reducing pain during sexual activity.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women diagnosed with vulvodynia or vestibulodynia who experience pain during sexual intercourse.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have vulvodynia or vestibulodynia, or those who do not experience pain during sexual intercourse, may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a safe and effective solution for women experiencing pain during sexual intercourse, improving their quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been various approaches to treating vulvodynia, this specific hydrogel film approach is novel and has not been extensively tested in clinical settings.

Where this research is happening

Saint Paul, 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.
Conditions addictive disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.