Active not recruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Efficacy of Internet-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Endometriosis

This study wants to find out if an online talking therapy called Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) can help people living with endometriosis. Endometriosis is a common condition where tissue similar to the womb lining grows outside the womb, causing pain and other problems. Because there's no cure yet and existing treatments can have side effects, this study explores a new online approach to managing the condition's impact on daily life. Researchers will develop a specific CBT programme for endometriosis and see if it helps reduce the difficulties people face due to their condition. It's hoped this could offer a valuable support option for managing endometriosis symptoms and improving well-being.

At a glance

Status

Active not recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

Philipps University Marburg

Enrolment target

120

Start

31 Oct 2022

Estimated completion

31 Jul 2025

Endometriosis

What is this study about?

Endometriosis is a very common condition that affects many women during their reproductive years. It's where tissue similar to the lining of the womb (uterus) grows in other places, usually in the tummy area. This can cause a lot of pain and other symptoms, which can really affect a person's daily life and overall well-being. It can also take a long time for doctors to correctly diagnose endometriosis.

Currently, there isn't a cure for endometriosis, and treatments available can sometimes come with unwanted side effects. Many people with endometriosis also experience feelings of sadness or worry, which can be made worse by the condition itself. This study is exploring a different approach to help people cope better with endometriosis by developing and testing an online talking therapy program.

This specific type of talking therapy is called Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). It's a way of helping people understand how their thoughts, feelings, and actions are connected, and then learning new ways to manage difficult situations. The study aims to see if an online CBT program, designed especially for people with endometriosis, can help reduce the difficulties and improve the quality of life for those affected. This could be a really valuable way to support people alongside their usual medical care.

Key takeaways

The study explores online CBT for managing endometriosis.
It aims to reduce difficulties caused by endometriosis.
Participation requires a confirmed endometriosis diagnosis.
You need a computer and internet access for the online therapy.
The study focuses on improving coping and quality of life.
You can withdraw from the study at any time.

Who may be eligible?

To join this study, you need to be a woman between 18 and 45 years old and have a confirmed diagnosis of endometriosis from a doctor. Your endometriosis must also be affecting your daily life and well-being to a certain extent.

You'll also need to be able to speak German well and have access to a computer or laptop with a good internet connection, as the therapy is delivered online.

There are certain reasons why you might *not* be able to take part. For example, if you have certain severe mental health conditions, are currently having psychotherapy, or have recently changed your medication for antidepressants or hormones. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning certain fertility treatments in the near future, you also won't be able to join. They also can't include people with specific other serious medical conditions.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you a woman aged between 18 and 45?
Has a doctor formally diagnosed you with endometriosis?
Is your endometriosis currently affecting your quality of life?
Do you speak and understand German well?
Do you have a personal computer or laptop with a reliable internet connection?
Are you NOT pregnant and have NOT given birth or breastfed in the last 6 months?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part in this study, you would be involved in an online Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) programme designed specifically for endometriosis. There might also be a waiting list group, which means you might receive the therapy at a later stage. The study involves you interacting with the CBT program through your personal computer or laptop with an internet connection. Detailed information about the number of sessions, how long each session lasts, and how often you'd need to engage will be provided if you’re eligible. The total duration of your participation in the study will be explained to you, including any follow-up assessments to see how you are doing.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study might offer you the potential benefit of learning new ways to cope with the challenges of endometriosis and improve your overall quality of life through online Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. As with any new treatment, there could be some risks, although online therapy is generally considered safe. The study will carefully monitor your well-being. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

Philipps University Marburg, Dept. of Psychology, Division of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy
Verified postcode
Marburg, Germany

Common questions

What is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)?

CBT is a type of talking therapy that helps you understand how your thoughts, feelings, and actions are connected. It teaches you skills to manage difficult situations and change unhelpful patterns.

Is this therapy given in person or online?

This therapy is delivered entirely online, meaning you'll access it through your computer or laptop with an internet connection.

Do I need to speak German to participate?

Yes, you need to have a good understanding and speaking ability of German to take part in this study.

Will I still receive my usual medical care for endometriosis?

Yes, this study is looking at therapy as a support alongside your primary medical care, not as a replacement for it.

What if I decide I don't want to continue with the study?

You are free to leave the study at any time, for any reason, and it will not affect your ongoing medical care.