Examining how menstrual hygiene products affect women's health

Integrated Genetic and Functional Analysis of the Influence of Menstrual Hygiene Products on Female Health

Not applicable Interventional University Hospital, Antwerp · NCT06519799

This study is testing how different menstrual hygiene products affect women's intimate health and the balance of bacteria in the vagina to see if they are linked to common infections.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment100 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexFemale
SponsorUniversity Hospital, Antwerp Academic / other
Locations1 site (Antwerp)
Trial IDNCT06519799 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the impact of various menstrual hygiene products, including tampons, menstrual cups, pads, and menstrual underwear, on women's intimate health and the vaginal microbiome. By analyzing the microbiome composition and its relation to the use of these products, the researchers aim to uncover potential links to common vaginal infections and overall reproductive health. The study will involve 100 female participants who meet specific eligibility criteria, focusing on premenopausal women who are Dutch-speaking and living in Belgium. The findings could provide valuable insights into how menstrual hygiene choices influence women's health.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are premenopausal women who are Dutch-speaking and living in Belgium, using specific forms of contraception or none at all.

Not a fit: Patients who are pregnant or not premenopausal will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved recommendations for menstrual hygiene products that enhance women's intimate health and reduce the risk of infections.

How similar studies have performed: While there is growing interest in the relationship between menstrual hygiene products and women's health, this specific approach appears to be novel and untested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* female
* contraception: combination pill with stop week or no hormonal contraception
* premenopausal
* Dutch-speaking living in Belgium
* regular menstrual cycle (if no hormonal contraception)

Exclusion Criteria:

* Pregnancy

Where this trial is running

Antwerp

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Vaginal DiseaseMenstrual Discomfortmenstrual healthintimate health
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.