Urogynecology Research

Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery Research

The Division of Urogynecology has many active research studies for pelvic floor disorders, including urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and bowel incontinence.

The division is fortunate to be part of the the Pelvic Floor Disorders Network (PFDN) which includes seven research sites across the US, supported by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.

Contact Information:
Ann S. Escher, Research Supervisor
AEscher@wihri.org

Division of Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery
101 Plain Street, 5th floor
Providence, RI
(401) 430-8228

Actively Recruiting Studies:

Beta-Agonist versus Botox A® Trial for Urgency Urinary Incontinence (BEST) Trial: Therapy for Urge Urinary Incontinence

The purpose of this study is to fill the evidence gap with direct-comparison data on patient-important efficacy and safety outcomes between an oral medication (Mirabegron or Vibegron) versus Botox A® in the treatment of Urgency Urinary Incontinence. 432 women across 5 sites in the United States will be asked to participate. Women will be followed for a 12-month period.

Learn more


TULIP: Training for Urinary Leakage Improvement after Pregnancy

TULIP is comparing three different pelvic muscle exercise strategies for improving urinary leakage after pregnancy:

  • Patient Education: Detailed information and instructions about lifestyle changes and pelvic muscle exercises that may improve accidental bladder leakage.
  • Pelvic Floor Muscle Therapy (PFMT): Coaching sessions with a skilled provider to learn and practice pelvic muscle exercises.
  • Pelvic Muscle Exercises with Leva®: Exercises guided by an at-home motion-based vaginal insert device (Leva®) that connects wirelessly with a smartphone app to inform the user when correct exercises are being performed.

Learn More


BASIS: Transurethral Bulking Agent Injection versus Single- Incision Sling for Stress Urinary Incontinence 

BASIS is comparing two treatments for people with SUI. Current evidence suggests that they may be less invasive with fewer side effects than full-length mid-urethral sling procedures. These treatments are commercially available and FDA approved for patients with SUI. Both procedures are routine for your condition and are not experimental.
  • Transurethral Bulking Agent Injection (TBA): Injection of Bulkamid material into the urethra to lessen SUI by sealing the urethra tighter.
  • Single-Incision Sling (SIS): Mesh sling placed through a small incision in the vagina which lessens SUI by supporting the urethra during physical straining.
 
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