Group care program for treating endometriosis-related pain
Interdisciplinary Group Care for the Treatment of Endometriosis-associated Pain: the Peer Empowered Endometriosis Pain Support (PEEPS) Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
This study is testing a new group care program called PEEPS to see if it can help people aged 18 to 48 with endometriosis-related pain feel better compared to those who just get regular support.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 48 Years |
| Sex | Female |
| Sponsor | Washington University School of Medicine Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (St Louis, Missouri) |
| Trial ID | NCT06549985 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This clinical trial evaluates the effectiveness of the Peer Empowered Endometriosis Pain Support (PEEPS) program, an 8-week interdisciplinary group care initiative aimed at reducing pain interference in individuals aged 18 to 48 with endometriosis-associated chronic pelvic pain. Participants will engage in group sessions that incorporate integrative care strategies, including pelvic floor physical therapy and mindfulness techniques. The study compares outcomes between those receiving PEEPS alongside usual care and those receiving educational support with usual care, assessing improvements in pain, physical function, and quality of life through surveys and feedback mechanisms.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are women aged 18-48 with a confirmed diagnosis of endometriosis and chronic pelvic pain lasting six months or more.
Not a fit: Patients who are currently pregnant, have severe physical impairments, or a history of psychiatric disorders may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly reduce pain and improve the quality of life for patients suffering from endometriosis-related pain.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using integrative group care approaches for chronic pain management, suggesting potential success for this novel program.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age 18-48 years * Operative confirmation of endometriosis * Chronic pelvic pain (pain perceived to originate from the pelvis, not exclusively during menses, lasting ≥6 months) * No plan to have surgery before or during the PEEPS cohort * Able to attend at least six of the eight 2-hour weekly sessions on the Washington University campus * Comfort reading and speaking English as groups and materials are in English Exclusion Criteria: * Currently pregnant * Severe physical impairment (limiting yoga participation) * History of hip or spine surgery given increased risk of harm and need for extensive activity modification * Current or history of psychiatric disorder with psychosis in order to minimize risk of adverse mental health effects to participants * Opioid use ≥ 5 days in the past 3 months, other than for the 6-week post-operative period * History of surgical removal of bilateral ovaries
Where this trial is running
St Louis, Missouri
- WashU Medicine — St Louis, Missouri, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Whitney Ross, MD — Washington University School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Whitney Ross, MD
- Email: ross.w@email.wustl.edu
- Phone: 314-747-5470
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.