Plain-English translation of NCT03538665 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated · Translation generated · How we translate trials
Researchers are working to develop a new way to detect uterine and ovarian cancer early using samples collected on tampons. The study collects tampons and tissue samples from women who are having surgery for uterine or ovarian concerns, and from women having surgery for non-cancer reasons. By studying these samples, scientists hope to create a simple, non-invasive test that could catch these cancers at earlier, more treatable stages.
Uterine cancer is becoming more common and deadlier, especially in Black women, and ovarian cancer is usually found too late when it's harder to treat. A simple test using tampons could help catch these cancers early when they're much easier to cure, and could reduce delays in diagnosis and treatment.
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If you qualify, you would provide a tampon sample before your scheduled surgery and allow researchers to collect tissue samples during the procedure. The study involves women both with and without cancer diagnoses — some are having surgery because they have been diagnosed with cancer or a precancerous condition, while others are having surgery for non-cancer reasons. Your samples would be studied to help develop and test this new early detection method.
AI-generated summary from trial data · Aug 6, 2026 · Not medical advice
United States
Enrollment target
~1,700 participants
Started
July 2019
Primary completion
August 2027
Age range
18 Years – 99 Years
Sex
Female only
Last updated on clinicaltrials.gov in July 2026.
Reach out to the team running this trial. Response times vary — some teams are faster than others.
Central contact
Rebecca C Arend, MD, MSPH
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Tell us you're interested and we'll help connect you with the research team. We'll walk you through what to expect first — no email needed to get started.