In a small-scale study, researchers from Radboud university medical center have found indications that contraction inhibitors reduce menstrual pain in women with endometriosis. If further research confirms these results, it could open the door to a new treatment option. The study previously received attention from, among others, the NOS.
In endometriosis, tissue that resembles the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, for example on the ovaries, bladder or intestines. This can lead to severe menstrual pain, but also to chronic abdominal complaints, fatigue, pain during sex, or problems with urination and defecation. In addition, endometriosis can reduce fertility. It is estimated that approximately one in ten women are affected by it.
Pain reduction
Table of Contents
In the study, a small group of women with endometriosis received an infusion of contraction inhibitors for 6 hours on the day when their menstrual pain was most severe. These drugs are normally used to inhibit premature labor. Gynecologist Bertho Nieuwboer says: ‘The results are positive. The women indicated that they experienced less pain that same day without using additional painkillers. The reduction in pain also seemed noticeable during the rest of their menstrual cycle.’
Follow-up research
This is an initial study, intended to investigate whether contraction inhibitors have any effect on menstrual pain due to endometriosis. Follow-up research in a larger group of women is needed to confirm the results of this study. Whether contractile inhibitors will ultimately be used as a new treatment depends on the results of these larger studies.
Current treatment options
Radboud University Medical Center has a lot of expertise in the field of endometriosis and various treatments are already available. Would you like to know more about endometriosis or the treatment options? Then take a look at our website. You can also op Facebook watch a live broadcast with Annemiek Nap, head of Gynecology and Obstetrics department, in which she answers patients’ questions about endometriosis.
If you suspect that you have endometriosis, discuss it with your doctor. This can refer you to a specialist.
About the publication
This research was published in Fertility and Sterility: Atosiban as a potential treatment for endometriosis-related pain: results from the ENDOBAN pilot study. Mark Schoep, Elise Taken, Annemiek Nap, Bertho Nieboer. DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2025.12.019
The NOS paid attention to this study in the eight o’clock news on Sunday, February 8. You can watch the broadcast here look back or the corresponding news article via this link read.
date:2026-02-09 16:49:00