Pelvic Health Rehabilitation After Breast and Gynecologic Cancer
The GYVE study is exploring an online program (eModule) to help women who have had breast or gynaecological cancer. Many women experience pelvic health issues like bladder control problems, bowel issues, or pain during sex after cancer treatment. These problems can really affect daily life, but getting help from a physiotherapist isn't always easy or affordable. This study will involve 20 participants in Canada taking part in a 12-week online program. They'll have weekly group sessions with a physiotherapist, learning about exercises, diet, and managing pain. The aim is to see if this online module is easy to use and if it helps improve these pelvic health problems. This could lead to more women getting the support they need.
At a glance
What is this study about?
When someone has breast or gynaecological cancer, often the treatments like surgery, radiotherapy, or hormone therapy can cause side effects. Some of these side effects can affect a woman's pelvic health, leading to problems like accidentally leaking urine or stool, feeling pain during sex, or having vaginal dryness. These issues are very common and can really impact a woman's comfort and quality of life.
Physiotherapy that focuses on the pelvic area can be very helpful for these problems. However, it's not always easy for everyone to get this kind of help. Sometimes it's because of the cost, or maybe it's hard to travel to appointments, or there simply aren't enough specialists available. This study is looking at a new way to offer this support through an online program, called an eModule, which might make it easier for more women to get the help they need.
The GYVE study wants to see if this online program is practical, easy for participants to use, and if it actually helps to reduce these common pelvic health issues. Experts in cancer care and pelvic health are leading the study. If the program works well, it could mean that more women who have been through cancer treatment could access valuable support from the comfort of their own homes.
Key takeaways
- This study is testing an online program for women with pelvic health problems after cancer.
- It aims to help with issues like bladder leaks, bowel problems, and painful sex.
- The 12-week program includes online group sessions with a physiotherapist.
- Participation could improve your symptoms and help future cancer patients.
- It's free to join if you meet the eligibility criteria.
- You can take part from home if you have internet access.
Who may be eligible?
This study is open to women aged 18 or older who have been diagnosed with breast cancer or a gynaecological cancer (like womb, cervical, ovarian, vulval, or vaginal cancer).
You should either be currently having cancer treatment, or you should have finished your treatment within the last three years. This includes surgery, radiotherapy, or chemotherapy. It's also important that you are experiencing some kind of bladder, bowel, or vaginal problem, which will be checked using a special questionnaire.
To join, you'll need regular access to the internet and a smart device or computer at home, as the program is delivered online. You'll also need to be able to understand and sign the consent form in English or French.
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 18 years old or older?
- Have you been diagnosed with breast cancer or a gynaecological cancer?
- Did you complete cancer treatment within the last 3 years, or are you currently receiving treatment?
- Do you experience any bladder, bowel, or vaginal problems?
- Do you have regular internet access and a smart device or computer at home?
What does participation involve?
If you join the study, you'll take part in an online program for 12 weeks. This will include weekly group sessions online, led by a physiotherapist. These sessions will teach you about things like pelvic floor exercises, how to use vaginal moisturisers, the importance of diet and staying hydrated, and ways to manage pain.
You'll be asked to complete questionnaires at the start, during, and at the end of the program. These questionnaires help the researchers understand how well the program is working and how you're feeling. All of this will happen remotely from your home, so you won't need to travel to a clinic.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (2)
- University of AlbertaVerified postcodeEdmonton, Canada· Recruiting
- Centre interdisciplinaire de recherche en réadaptation et intégration socialeVerified postcodeQuébec, Canada· Recruiting
Common questions
What kind of pelvic health problems does this study address?
It addresses issues like leaking urine or stool, pain during sex, vaginal dryness, discomfort, and constipation that can happen after breast or gynaecological cancer treatment.
Do I need to pay to join this study?
No, participating in this study is free. The online program and sessions are provided as part of the research.
How long does the study last?
The online program itself lasts for 12 weeks, with weekly group sessions. You'll also complete questionnaires before, during, and after this period.
Do I need medical expertise to join?
No, you don't need any special medical expertise. The program uses simple, plain language and a physiotherapist will guide you through everything.
What if I don't feel comfortable discussing personal topics in a group?
While the sessions are group-based, the study aims to create a supportive environment. You can always discuss any concerns with the physiotherapist leading the sessions or the study team.
How to find out more
Stéphanie Bernard, Ph.D. PT
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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