Testing a Home-Based Ear Stimulation Device for Pain and Symptom Management in Young Adults with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- Study IRB#:2000039295
- Last Updated:08/17/2026
Researchers at Yale University and Florida State University are studying whether a home-based ear stimulation device called transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) is a feasible, acceptable, and safe way to help manage pain and symptoms in young adults with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
You may be eligible if you are 18 to 29 years old, have been diagnosed with IBS by a healthcare provider, currently experience IBS-related pain, and can access the internet.
Participation lasts about 14 weeks and includes:
- Online consent and questionnaires
- A 2-week online education/run-in period
- Two in-person research visits
- Assignment by chance to either active taVNS or a sham (inactive) stimulation group
- Twice-daily use of a home-based ear stimulation device for 6 weeks
- Completion of online diaries and surveys
- Weekly virtual check-ins with study staff
- A final online follow-up six weeks after treatment ends
- Optional participation in a virtual focus group interview about your experience
- Age18 years - 29 years
- GenderBoth
Contact Us
For more information about this study, including how to volunteer, contact:
Eunhea You
- Phone Number: 1-203-737-1635
Help Us Discover!
You can help our team find trials you might be eligible for by creating a volunteer profile in MyChart. To get started, create a volunteer profile, or contact helpusdiscover@yale.edu, or call +18779788343 for more information.
Eligibility Criteria
Who Can Participate:
- Age 18-29 years
- Male or female
- Diagnosed with IBS by a healthcare provider (verification required)
- Reports IBS-related pain with a worst pain score of at least 3 out of 10 on at least one day during the past 3 months
- Daily access to a computer and internet
- Able to read and speak English
Who Cannot Participate:
- Other chronic pain conditions
- Celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease
- Diabetes mellitus
- Severe psychiatric condition requiring inpatient treatment within the last 6 months
- Moderate or high suicide risk at baseline screening
- Pregnant or breastfeeding
- Regular use of opioids or illicit substances
- Use of probiotics or antibiotics within 2 weeks before enrollment
- Medical conditions or contraindications that would make taVNS unsafe, including certain cardiovascular disorders, recent ear trauma, cochlear implants, pacemakers, or other metal implants
