Randomized E-hypnotherapy for Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome Trial (REST)

Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome and Hypnotherapy

Our pilot studies demonstrated that hypnotherapy may help reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and pelvic pain. Building on this work, the Randomised e-hypnotherapy for Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome Trial (REST) is evaluating whether e-hypnotherapy can improve pain, mental health, and quality of life compared with relaxation and waitlist control conditions over a 12-month period. The e-hypnotherapy and relaxation groups will receive access to a self-directed online platform with customisable audios.

Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (CPPS) is estimated to affect 15–34% of people worldwide and encompasses several common and challenging conditions including endometriosis and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Endometriosis alone costs up to $21,000 per woman each year in health, productivity and carer-related expenses, with a total estimated economic burden per year in Australia of $6.5 billion. In addition to chronic pain, people with CPPS commonly experience psychological distress and impacts on sexual health and wellbeing.

Hypnotherapy is an evidence-based psychological intervention for pain and mental health conditions. Unlike relaxation alone, hypnotherapy uses focused attention and therapeutic suggestions to support cognitive and behavioural change. Research suggests that hypnotherapy can modulate neural processes involved in pain perception, supporting its potential role in the management of CPPS.

Participant recruitment for the REST trial was completed in February 2026.

For more information about the study design and methodology, readers can access the protocol paper: https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/15/11/e102697.long

Meet the team