RecruitingOBSERVATIONAL

Epidemiology of Sexually Transmitted Infections and Its iMpAcT on fEmale Infertility

This study aims to understand how widely spread sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are among young women. Researchers want to find out if these infections play a role in a woman's ability to get pregnant later in life. They will also investigate the natural balance of bacteria in a woman's vagina (called the microbiome) and how this might connect to her fertility. By studying these factors over time, the researchers hope to gain important insights into women's long-term reproductive health and identify ways to protect it. This is an observational study, meaning participants will not be given any new medications or treatments.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

University of Luebeck

Enrolment target

533

Start

11 Nov 2020

Estimated completion

30 Jun 2029

Sexually Transmitted Infection

What is this study about?

This study is focused on understanding sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and their possible connection to female fertility. For many couples, having children is very important. However, sometimes women can have difficulty getting pregnant, and scientists are still learning about all the reasons why this happens. One area of interest is how common STIs are, especially in young women, and whether these infections can affect a woman's ability to have children later in life.

The researchers are also interested in the 'microbiome' of the female genital area. This is a collection of tiny organisms, mostly bacteria, that naturally live in and on our bodies. The balance of these organisms is very important for our health. Scientists want to see if there's a link between the specific mix of bacteria in a woman's vagina and her chances of becoming pregnant.

By taking part in this study, you would be helping doctors and researchers learn more about how STIs and the vaginal microbiome might influence a woman's fertility. This knowledge could help improve health advice and treatments for women in the future, ultimately helping more women have healthy pregnancies.

Key takeaways

The study investigates STIs and their link to female fertility.
It's an observational study, meaning no new treatments are given.
Participation involves providing vaginal swab samples over time.
The study aims to improve understanding of women's long-term reproductive health.
You must be 18-22 years old and understand and agree to participate.
You can withdraw from the study at any time.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for young women to take part. You must be between 18 and 22 years old. It's very important that you fully understand what the study involves and agree to take part freely.

There are some reasons why you wouldn't be able to join. For example, if you are currently pregnant, you won't be able to participate. Also, if you have had a medical procedure that prevents you from getting pregnant (like having your tubes tied), you can't join.

Finally, you need to be able to understand the information about the study and give your agreement to take part. If, for any reason, you're not able to do this, you wouldn't be eligible.

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?
Are you between 18 and 22 years old?
Are you able to understand the study and agree to take part?
Are you not currently pregnant?
Have you not had a procedure to prevent pregnancy (like sterilisation)?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, you will be in the study for a period of time, which will be explained to you. You won't be given any new medications or treatments. Your participation will involve regularly providing a vaginal swab. This is a simple procedure where a small cotton bud is used to collect a sample from your vagina, usually done by yourself or a healthcare professional. These samples will help the researchers study STIs and the bacteria in your vagina over time. The study staff will explain how often and for how long these samples will be needed.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study won't directly improve your health, as it's an observational study (meaning no treatments are given). However, your contribution will be very valuable in helping researchers understand and improve women's health in the future. The risks of participating are generally low, mainly involving mild discomfort from the vaginal swab. All information collected will be kept private and confidential. Remember, joining this study is completely your choice, and you can decide to stop participating at any time without having to give a reason.

Locations (1)

Klinik für Infektiologie und Mikrobiologie
Verified postcode
Lübeck, Germany· Recruiting

Common questions

What is an STI?

STI stands for Sexually Transmitted Infection. These are infections that can be passed from one person to another through sexual contact, and they can sometimes affect a person's health if not treated.

What is a 'vaginal swab'?

A vaginal swab is a simple way to collect a sample of cells or fluids from inside your vagina, usually using a cotton bud. It helps doctors check for infections or other health conditions.

Will I be given any medicine in this study?

No, this study is about observing and learning, not about giving new medicines or treatments. You will not receive any medication as part of this research.

What does 'fertility' mean?

Fertility means a person's ability to have children. When we talk about female fertility, we mean a woman's ability to get pregnant and carry a baby.

Will my information be kept private?

Yes, all the information and samples you provide will be kept strictly confidential and private. Your name and personal details will not be shared with anyone outside the study team.

How to find out more

Nadja Käding, Dr.

nadja.kaeding@uksh.de +4945131019010 Official trial record

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