NIHR funds trial of remote pain program for women with severe endometriosis
A £2.3 million NIHR-backed study will test a 12-week online pain-management programme for pre-menopausal women whose endometriosis pain persists after surgery or medication.
A new NIHR-funded trial, costing £2.3 million, will assess whether a remotely delivered endometriosis-specific Pain Management Programme (e-PMP) can improve quality of life for women whose condition is unresponsive to surgery or medication. Conducted by the University of Aberdeen with NHS Grampian, the 12-week programme blends CBT-informed psychotherapy, specialist physiotherapy, and advice on intimacy and medication optimisation.
Premenopausal participants will be assigned either to the e-PMP plus usual care or to usual care alone, allowing a direct comparison of outcomes. Endometriosis affects roughly one in ten women and often returns after surgery, leaving many with chronic pelvic pain and fatigue. If the trial demonstrates lasting benefits, the e-PMP could become a vital alternative for those seeking to avoid repeated operations or hormonal therapies, especially for women planning pregnancy.
Why it matters
It could provide a non-invasive, long-term treatment option for millions of women suffering from chronic endometriosis pain.
