Understanding how period pain in adolescents may lead to chronic pain
Official title: Understanding the Role of Adolescent Dysmenorrhoea as a Risk Factor for the Transition to Chronic Pain: Clinical Cohort Study
Run by University of Oxford · NCT06353789 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how period pain in young women aged 11 to 20 might lead to long-term pain problems later on.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 11 Years to 20 Years |
| Sex | Women only |
| Enrollment | 132 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Oxford Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Oxford, Oxfordshire) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | June 4, 2024 |
| Main results expected | May 1, 2026 |
| Study ends | May 1, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | June 14, 2024 |
| Trial ID | NCT06353789 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are females or those assigned female at birth, aged 11 to 20, who have experienced at least six menstrual cycles and report varying levels of period pain.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with current or previous chronic pain conditions other than dysmenorrhea, 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 investigates the relationship between dysmenorrhea in adolescents and the potential development of chronic pain. It aims to identify physiological changes that occur in young women experiencing period pain, comparing them to those without pain. By examining these changes, the study seeks to inform clinical practices and develop preventative strategies for chronic pain. The research focuses on participants aged 11 to 20 who have experienced at least six menstrual cycles and reports on their pain levels.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to early identification and prevention strategies for chronic pain in young women.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of this study is novel, similar studies have indicated that understanding menstrual pain can provide insights into chronic pain development.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Participant (or parent/guardian of participant) is willing and able to give informed consent for participation in the study. * Female or assigned female at birth. * aged 11 - 20 years. * At least 6 periods per year since menarche. * During the study data collection period will be within one of the following time intervals since menarche: * 12 - 15 months * 36 - 39 months * 60 - 63 months * Reports either period pain or no pain with periods and scores appropriately on NRS (period pain: ≥4/10; no period pain: ≤3/10). * Not using hormonal therapies (i.e. contraceptives) currently and has not used previously. * Reasonably fluent in English. Exclusion Criteria: * Current or previous chronic pain condition other than dysmenorrhoea, including migraine. * Pregnant or breast-feeding. * Previous cancer diagnosis. * Contraindication to MRI
Where it's running
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University of Oxford
Oxford, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Katy Vincent, MRCOG, DPhil — University of Oxford
- Study coordinator: Katy Vincent, MRCOG, DPhil
- Email: katy.vincent@wrh.ox.ac.uk
- Phone: 00 44 1865 220024
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment for Dysmenorrhea Symptoms
This pilot study tests whether a targeted OMT session before the next period can reduce pain and other dysmenorrhea symptoms in female university community members.
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Diaphragm-Pelvic Floor Training for Young Women with Menstrual Pain
A randomized trial tests whether Diaphragm-Pelvic Floor Synergy training can reduce menstrual pain and improve quality of life in university-aged women with primary dysmenorrhea.
-
Samphire Guided Care for Wellbeing at Work
This study tests a 12-week digital program with at-home neuromodulation to see if it helps women with menstrual or perimenopausal symptoms feel better at work and in daily life.
-
Aerobic Exercise vs. Jacobson’s Relaxation for Primary Dysmenorrhea
This study tests whether aerobic exercise or Jacobson’s progressive relaxation can help reduce pain and fatigue and improve quality of life for young women with primary dysmenorrhea.
-
Sacral release versus lumbar mobilization for period cramps in teens.
This will test whether sacral release or lumbar mobilization works better to reduce menstrual pain, lessen symptoms, and improve quality of life in adolescent girls with primary dysmenorrhea.
-
IV magnesium for acute menstrual cramp pain
This trial will test whether a single IV dose of magnesium sulfate relieves severe menstrual cramp pain in women 18–35 better than IV dexketoprofen.
How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.