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The Sydney Centre for Reproductive Health Research (SCRHR),  the Research Division of Family Planning NSW at Ashfield, is always seeking volunteers for a number of important studies. The Centre has a reputation internationally for its high standard of research in reproductive and sexual health.

Without volunteers some of the medicines we use today would not be available and many treatments would not be possible. By volunteering for a study you are participating in important research that may result in new treatments, improvements in the delivery of health care services and an increased knowledge of reproductive and sexual health.

What is a research Study?

Research studies help us to discover the answers to specific scientific and health questions. We use this “evidence” to improve our understanding of many aspects of medicine, including how best to maintain health, prevent disease and deliver services to particular client groups.

There are many different types of research studies, some involve taking part in surveys, interviews or focus groups, whilst others might involve taking part in “clinical trials” (the testing of a new drug or device). These tests are done to see if the drug or device is safe and effective for people to use, or, to compare treatments to see which is the most effective.

All Research studies have to follow strict guidelines for good clinical practice and be approved and monitored by a registered ethics committee (FPNSW Research studies are approved by the FPNSW Ethics Committee). Additional rules are set by the Therapeutic Goods Agency (TGA), the Australian regulatory body for all clinical trials.

Why Volunteer?

Benefits of participating in research are mostly indirect but may include:

• receiving excellent, up-to-date medical information about sexual and reproductive health issues
• obtaining new health information about yourself
• participating in studies that may help improve the health of others, now or in the future
• receiving free contraception in some studies

How safe is it to volunteer?

Your health and safety are of the utmost importance to us and all of our studies are approved and monitored by an independent ethics review board.

Some questions you may want to ask when considering participation in a study are:

• What is the purpose of the study?
• Who is sponsoring the study?
• How long will I have to participate?
• What are the possible benefits and risks to me?
• What kind of treatment or intervention will I be given?
• Will my personal details remain confidential?

You will be asked to sign a consent form before you can join a research study to ensure that you understand all aspects of the study and what your participation will involve. The risks and benefits associated with the study will be fully explained before you sign the consent form so that you, the volunteer, can make an informed choice. If you decide to join a research study you can withdraw at any time should you change your mind. This decision will not affect future access to services at Family Planning New South Wales.

Cost of participating in a trial

There is no cost to volunteers in a study. All treatment and tests are free. There is usually a modest amount of reimbursement to cover travel and parking expenses you may incur as a result of participating.

Volunteer for a Research Study 
 
Contact phone:  (02) 8752 4350         
Contact email:  research@fpnsw.org.au