Current Research Projects

Contraceptive Clinical Trials Network (CCTN) Studies:

The BEACON Research Team is an active site within the NIH Contraceptive Clinical Trials Network (CCTN). This nationwide network conducts clinical trials of new contraceptive drugs and devices to develop novel female and male contraceptive methods. We are currently involved in two of these trials:

  • A Phase I study to evaluate the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profile of intramuscular or subcutaneous injections of levonorgestrel butanoate (LB) for female contraception (Not Recruiting)
    • We are participating in a study of a new injectable birth control method.
    • Patients have weekly visits in the clinic, and have blood drawn and vaginal ultrasound exams at most visits. They would be in the study for up to 6 months and receive up to $2355 in compensation for time and effort if all the study visits are completed.
  • A Single Arm, Open-Label Pivotal Contraceptive Efficacy Study of Ovaprene (Not Recruiting)
    • We’re investigating a potential new monthly, non-hormonal birth control
    • Participation is 12-14 months, with up to 8 visits to BMC. Compensation is up to $400.

 

Cervical Dilation (Actively Recruiting):

The BEACON team at Boston Medical Center is recruiting participants for a study investigating how a person’s cervix changes over the menstrual cycle.  

In this study subjects will: 

  • Study duration: 1 menstrual cycle (~1 month) 
  • Come to BMC for 5 visits (~1-1.5 hours each) over the course of your menstrual cycle: 
  • The first visit will focus on informed consent and completing a personal and medical history questionnaire. The next four visits will consist of a speculum exam and perform an assessment of the dilation of your cervix. 
  • Visit times will occur as follows:  
  • Visit 2 (cycle days 1-3) 
  • Visit 3 (cycle days 7-9) 
  • Visit 4 (cycle days 12-16) 
  • Visit 5 (cycle days 21-24) 

*Visits 1 and 2 can occur on the same day 

  • Total compensation for participating in the study is $200 if you complete all five study visits. 
  • You will receive $40 after completing each study visit. 

Eligibility: 

  • Aged 18 years or older 
  • English speaker 
  • Has a cervix and uterus 
  • Has menstrual cycles that are not suppressed (stopped) by any hormonal birth control or medication 
  • Can return to the hospital multiple times for study visits over the course of a single menstrual cycle 
  • Not currently incarcerated 
  • Not currently pregnant  
  • Interested in Participating? 

Contact:  

Email: alana.martinusen@bmc.org 

Phone: (617)-383-3500 

 

OB/GYN Clinic, Yawkey Ambulatory Care Center, 5th Floor, Boston Medical Center, 850 Harrison Avenue, Boston, MA 02118
⌨ dg-infofp@bmc.org | ☏ 617-383-3500