Understanding the causes of pain in endometriosis

Peripheral and central mechanisms of endometriosis pain

NIH-funded research Washington University · NIH-11136788

This study is looking at why women with endometriosis experience pain and aims to find out how different factors, like hormones, affect that pain, so if you're a woman dealing with pelvic pain, whether or not you have endometriosis, you can help us learn more by sharing your experiences before and after a small surgery.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWashington University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Saint Louis, United States)
Project IDNIH-11136788 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms behind pain experienced by women with endometriosis, a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of it. The study will analyze both central and peripheral factors that may contribute to pain, including hormonal influences and pain modulation responses. Women with pelvic pain, whether or not they have endometriosis, will undergo assessments before and after laparoscopic surgery to evaluate changes in their pain levels. The goal is to identify specific biological markers that could predict pain severity and response to treatment.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adult women experiencing chronic pelvic pain, particularly those diagnosed with endometriosis or undergoing surgery for its treatment.

Not a fit: Patients who do not experience pelvic pain or have conditions unrelated to endometriosis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved pain management strategies for women suffering from endometriosis.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding pain mechanisms in endometriosis, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Saint Louis, 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.