Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Observational Ages 18 to 25 Women only

Investigating how female hormones affect brain blood flow

Official title: The Effects of the Female Sex Hormones and Hormonal Contraception on Cerebral Perfusion

Run by University Ghent · NCT03299179 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is testing how female hormones and birth control affect blood flow and activity in the brain for women.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Ages18 Years to 25 Years
SexWomen only
Enrollment62 (estimated)
SponsorUniversity Ghent
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Ghent)
StatusRecruiting
StartedOctober 3, 2016
Main results expectedDecember 31, 2027
Study endsDecember 31, 2027
Registry record updatedDecember 6, 2023
Trial IDNCT03299179 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates are Bachelor or Master students who have not used hormonal contraception for at least three months.

Probably not a fit

Patients with MRI contraindications, chronic diseases, or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding may not benefit from this study.

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to measure variations in cerebral perfusion and other brain parameters influenced by female sex hormones and hormonal contraception. Participants will undergo MRI scans, physiological monitoring, and blood sample collection to assess brain activity, connectivity, and diffusion. The study focuses on understanding how menstrual cycles and contraceptive use impact brain function and blood flow. By analyzing these factors, researchers hope to gain insights into the physiological effects of female hormones on the brain.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance understanding of how hormonal changes affect brain health and function in women.

How similar studies have gone: While studies on hormonal effects on brain function exist, this specific approach focusing on cerebral perfusion variations is relatively novel.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Bachelor or Master student
* Minimum of 3 months not using contraception of using Deso20

Exclusion Criteria:

* No informed consent
* MRI-contraindications
* Claustrophobia
* Pregnancy or breastfeeding
* Chronic diseases and chronic medication use
* Smoker
* Drug use
* Abuse of alcohol and caffeine

Where it's running

  • Ghent University Hospital
    Ghent, Belgium
    Recruiting

Study contacts

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.