RecruitingOBSERVATIONAL

Reframing Endometrial Physiology by Advanced Integrated Research

The REPAIR study wants to understand why some women experience very heavy periods, a condition that affects many and can really impact daily life. Currently, it's hard to get an exact diagnosis. We're using modern tools like wearable sensors, special MRI scans, and collecting biological samples to look closely at changes in the womb that might cause heavy bleeding. Our goal is to find new and easier ways to accurately diagnose this problem. We're inviting around 130 women, both those with and without heavy periods, aged 18 to 45, to take part over three years at two study locations. Your participation could help improve future care for lots of women.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust

Enrolment target

100

Start

06 Feb 2026

Estimated completion

01 Feb 2030

Menorrhagia Due to Benign Causes

What is this study about?

Heavy periods, also known as menorrhagia, affect about one in three women and can seriously impact their lives. Despite how common it is, there isn't an easy or accurate test to diagnose exactly why it's happening. This means that many women don't get the right treatment or understanding they need.

The REPAIR study aims to change this by looking at the womb in new and detailed ways. We believe that small changes in how the womb works and looks might be linked to heavy periods. To discover these links, we'll be using advanced techniques. This includes special MRI scans that give detailed pictures of the womb, wearable sensors that can measure important body signals, and collecting different biological samples to learn more about what's happening inside the body.

By gathering all this information from women with and without heavy periods, we hope to find clear signs that point to the cause of this condition. Our ultimate goal is to develop better, simpler tests that can be used by doctors to accurately diagnose heavy periods. This could lead to more effective treatments and better quality of life for many women.

Key takeaways

The study aims to find better ways to diagnose heavy periods.
It uses advanced scans, wearable sensors, and biological samples.
Participation is for women aged 18-45 who are having periods.
You cannot participate if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or on hormonal treatments.
Your involvement helps improve future care for women with heavy periods.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for women between 18 and 45 years old who are currently having periods.

You cannot take part if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have certain serious medical conditions, such as known cancer of the womb or severe anaemia that needs urgent treatment. Also, if you can't have an MRI scan (for example, if you have a pacemaker or suffer from severe claustrophobia), you won't be able to join.

Important to note: If you are currently using hormone treatments or have used them within the last two months, you won't be able to participate. This includes hormonal contraception like the pill, patch, or ring, and hormonal coils.

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 between 18 and 45 years old?
Are you currently having periods?
Are you NOT pregnant or breastfeeding?
Do you NOT have a pacemaker or suffer from severe claustrophobia (which would prevent an MRI)?
Have you NOT used any hormonal treatments (like the pill, patch, or coil) in the last two months?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part in the REPAIR study, you would visit one of our two study locations a few times over the study period. During these visits, you might have an MRI scan, wear small sensors that monitor body signals, and provide some biological samples like blood or urine. The research team will explain everything in detail before you agree to take part. There are no medications involved in this study. The study plans to involve participants over a three-year period, but your individual involvement will be discussed when you sign up.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study could help us learn more about heavy periods, which might lead to better diagnostic tests and treatments for women in the future. While the benefits to you personally might not be immediate, you'll be contributing to important medical knowledge. There are a few potential risks, such as discomfort during scans or blood tests, though these are generally minor. The research team will explain all procedures and any associated risks in detail. Remember, your participation is voluntary, and you have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

University Hospital Southampton
Verified postcode
Southampton, United Kingdom· Recruiting

Common questions

What are 'heavy periods'?

Heavy periods, or menorrhagia, mean having unusually heavy or long-lasting bleeding during your monthly period.

What will I have to do if I join the study?

You might have an MRI scan, wear special sensors, and give some biological samples like blood or urine. The team will explain everything.

How long will my involvement in the study last?

Your individual involvement will be discussed, but the overall study is being conducted over three years.

Will I get paid for taking part?

The study information doesn't specify payment, but any reimbursement for travel expenses will be discussed by the study team.

Can I still take part if I'm on the pill?

No, if you're currently using hormonal treatments or used them in the last two months, you won't be able to join this study.

How to find out more

Ying Cheong

y.cheong@soton.ac.uk +44 7977011443 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.