Preventing anal sphincter dysfunction after childbirth injuries

Multimodal Interventions to Prevent Anal Sphincter Dysfunction After Childbirth-Related Neuromuscular Injury

['FUNDING_R21'] · VETERANS MEDICAL RESEARCH FDN/SAN DIEGO · NIH-10810599

This study is looking at new ways to help women recover from problems with their anal muscles after giving birth, using a special treatment to help nerves and muscles heal better.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorVETERANS MEDICAL RESEARCH FDN/SAN DIEGO (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAN DIEGO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10810599 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how to prevent anal sphincter dysfunction, a common issue for women after childbirth, by exploring innovative therapies. It focuses on understanding the mechanisms behind nerve and muscle damage during childbirth and aims to develop treatments that promote healing and recovery. Using a rabbit model, the study will test a new formulation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and a targeted delivery system to enhance nerve regrowth and muscle function. The goal is to find effective multimodal interventions that can be translated into clinical practice for affected women.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women who have experienced childbirth-related injuries leading to anal sphincter dysfunction.

Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced childbirth or those with anal sphincter dysfunction due to non-childbirth-related causes may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the incidence of fecal incontinence in women following childbirth.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of this research is novel, similar studies have shown promise in using neurotrophic factors for nerve regeneration.

Where this research is happening

SAN DIEGO, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.