Have PCOS and trying for a baby? Join our LOCI research trial!
We are looking for women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) who are trying to conceive, to take part in a new clinical trial called ‘LOCI’ which we are undertaking in collaboration with the University of Birmingham Clinical Trials Unit. LOCI is investigating the effectiveness of two different drugs (letrozole and clomifene) on fertility, pregnancy and successful births. Both of these drugs aim to induce or ‘switch on’ ovulation, which is often disrupted in women with PCOS. Improved ovulation should increase the chances of becoming pregnant. Clinicians and researchers do not yet know which should be the first-line medication.
Women in the study will take part in up to 6 treatment cycles where letrozole or clomifene is taken with or without (placebo) the drug metformin. These drugs are already widely used and considered safe, but the results of LOCI will provide important insights on which combination of drugs works best – something which is still unknown.
By taking part in this trial you will be helping our research team move science forwards and giving many women with PCOS a better chance of getting pregnant and giving birth in future. During your involvement, you will be monitored by your clinical team and treated with respect and dignity throughout. Your data will be kept confidential at all times and you are free to leave the study at any time.
We welcome women of any ethnicity or background to take part. If language or access barriers are an issue, please let us know as we would like to facilitate your participation wherever possible e.g. providing an interpreter to help. To find out more you can check this website https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/loci and/or contact us on wih-tr.ResearchDepartment@nhs.net.