Using menstrual cups to improve reproductive health among economically vulnerable women
Single arm trial of menstrual cups among economically vulnerable women to reduce Bacterial vaginosis and STIs through reduced harmful sexual and menstrual practices
This study is looking at whether using menstrual cups can help reduce infections like bacterial vaginosis and STIs in women in western Kenya who may not have easy access to menstrual products, and it compares their health to women using regular methods.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rush University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10888272 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of menstrual cups on reducing bacterial vaginosis and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among economically vulnerable women in western Kenya. The study involves providing menstrual cups to participants and comparing their health outcomes to those using traditional menstrual management methods. By focusing on this population, the research aims to address the challenges these women face in managing their menstrual hygiene and sexual health. The methodology includes a cluster-randomized trial to assess the effectiveness of menstrual cups over a specified period.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are economically vulnerable women aged 14-21 living in western Kenya.
Not a fit: Patients who are not economically vulnerable or those outside the specified age range may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve reproductive health outcomes for economically vulnerable women by reducing the prevalence of bacterial vaginosis and STIs.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with menstrual cups in reducing bacterial vaginosis and STIs, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- Rush University Medical Center — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mehta, Supriya Dinesh — Rush University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Mehta, Supriya Dinesh
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 below.