Could a magnetic helmet ease bladder pain? new study investigates

NCT ID NCT04734847

Ongoing Symptom relief Sponsor: University of Southern California Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tests whether a non-invasive magnetic brain stimulation technique, called rTMS, can reduce pain in women with interstitial cystitis or bladder pain syndrome. The treatment targets brain areas that control pelvic floor muscles, aiming to lower pain by improving how the brain and muscles work together. Fifty women will receive either real or sham rTMS to see if it provides lasting relief.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a non-invasive, drug-free option for managing chronic bladder pain in women.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage study with 50 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The sham control means some may not benefit, and long-term effects are unknown.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Chronic Pain interstitial cystitis

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

BLADDER PAIN SYNDROME INTERSTITIAL CYSTITIS

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of Southern California

Los Angeles, California, 90049, United States

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