Diagnosis of Heavy Menstrual Bleeding Using Alternative Period Products
This study may help us compare the use of menstrual cups and period underwear to disposable pads and tampons in people who have heavy periods.
We are seeking people with heavy periods 18 years or older to participate in a study using alternative period products (menstrual cups and period underwear). In order to diagnose heavy periods, healthcare providers typically depend on information like how often disposable pads or tampons are changed. Many people prefer to use menstrual cups and/or period underwear, so we need more information on how frequent individuals with heavy periods empty cups or saturate underwear. Interested individuals will participate for two full menstrual cycles. During the first cycle, individuals will manage menses as they typically do with disposable pads or tampons and report on the frequency of change, leaking, etc. During the second menstrual cycle, participants will be randomly assigned (like the flip of a coin) to use either a menstrual cup or period underwear on the heaviest days of the cycle and will report the same information on the frequency of change, leaking, etc.
You may be eligible to participate in this study if you:
- Are a regularly menstrual individual
- Are 18 years of age or older
- Are willing to use study-provided disposable pads/tampons for one cycle and menstrual cup/period underwear for one cycle
- Have a confirmed diagnosis of Heavy Menstrual Bleeding
- Are fluent in English
- Have not had any recent treatments (within 3 months) expected to change your bleeding pattern
Compensation:
Study Participation is completely voluntary. Qualified participants will receive all study-related materials at no charge and will be compensated up to $250 for their time and travel. The exact amount will depend on the number of visits and study requirements completed.
Who to contact for additional information:
To find out more information and to learn if you are qualified to participate, fill out the online form, call the Women's Health Research Unit confidential recruitment line at 503-494-3666 or email us at whru@ohsu.edu.
Complete the following online form: