A study into the biology of uterine fibroids and endometriosis in Oxford (FENOX)

Research summary

Millions of women suffer from the consequences of endometriosis and uterine fibroids. These include severe pain, abnormal uterine bleeding, infertility and miscarriages. Current treatment is associated with significant side effects and risks. To better understand the underlying mechanisms of these conditions, this prospective study will use biological samples such as blood, saliva, urine, peritoneal fluid and endometrial or fibroid tissue in state-of-the-art biomedical assays together with detailed clinical and intraoperative data from participants. Women of reproductive age (18 years until menopause) who are planned to undergo surgery for endometriosis and/or fibroid-associated symptoms, or unrelated gynaecological surgery, will be invited to participate. Once consented, they complete detailed questionnaires at baseline and then at intervals (6-8 weeks, 6 months, 1 year and yearly, for a total of 5 years) about their symptoms, medications, co-morbidities, and ethnicity. Consenting women will also be asked to donate biological samples such as blood, urine and saliva at baseline and again at a follow-up visit after their surgery, in addition to tissue taken at time of surgery. We will then analyse the differences in tissue and clinical data between patient groups to understand the conditions better, and to identify new ways of treatment.

Principal Investigator

Prof Christian M Becker

Contact us

Email: crndirectdeliveryteam@ouh.nhs.uk

IRAS number

227921