Progestin Contraception Research Study
Researchers at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) are conducting a study on menstrual changes in progestin contraceptive users to better understand how these contraceptives affect the lining of the uterus.
Fast Facts
Not Currently Using Hormonal Birth Control & Open to Initiating Either The Implant (Nexplanon) or Injection (Depo-Provera) as a Method
18-40 Year Old Females With Regular Menstrual Periods
Compensation
Provided
Conducted in
Portland, OR
Study Background
Why do some people experience irregular bleeding with progestin-only birth control?
This study is focused on understanding how the contraceptive implant (Nexplanon) and the contraceptive injection (Depo-Provera) affect the endometrium—the lining of the uterus—and why they can cause changes in menstrual bleeding patterns. Progestin-only contraceptives are safe and effective, but for some users, the changes to bleeding patterns can be unexpected and frustrating. By collecting and analyzing tissue samples from the uterus at multiple time points, researchers aim to better understand the biological reasons for these changes.
Ultimately, this research could help improve contraceptive counseling and future options for birth control users.
Study Background
Why do some people experience irregular bleeding with progestin-only birth control?
This study is focused on understanding how the contraceptive implant (Nexplanon) and the contraceptive injection (Depo-Provera) affect the endometrium—the lining of the uterus—and why they can cause changes in menstrual bleeding patterns. Progestin-only contraceptives are safe and effective, but for some users, the changes to bleeding patterns can be unexpected and frustrating. By collecting and analyzing tissue samples from the uterus at multiple time points, researchers aim to better understand the biological reasons for these changes.
Ultimately, this research could help improve contraceptive counseling and future options for birth control users.
Additional Information
Researchers want to learn what changes in the endometrial tissue are responsible for different bleeding patterns during the first year of progestin-only contraceptive use.
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- 18-40 year old females
- Regular menstrual periods
- Body Mass Index (BMI) between 19-35
- Open to initiating either the implant (Nexplanon) or injection (Depo-Provera) as a birth control method
Exclusion Criteria:
- Currently using hormonal birth control
- Currently using an intrauterine device or intrauterine system (IUD or IUS)
- Currently pregnant or planning pregnancy during the study
If you are eligible and choose to join the study, you will receive your choice of either the contraceptive implant (Nexplanon) or the contraceptive injection (Depo-Provera) at no cost. You will have 5 or 6 in-person clinic visits at OHSU in Portland over 13 months and 8 or 9 monthly check-ins by phone or email. Four of your clinic visits will include an endometrial biopsy (a small sample of the uterine lining).
Yes. You may be compensated up to $1,505 for your time and participation. Travel-related support may be available for those coming from within a 150-mile radius of Portland, OR.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.